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COMPLEXITY CONNECTIONS OldGrowth Forests
and Culturally Modified Trees
Old-growth forests are communities of trees, other plants, fungi, animals and microbes. These species have lived together for a long time in strong and interconnected relationships.
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The provincial government considers forests to be “old growth” if the trees are over 250 years old. But just looking at age is not enough to define a true “old-growth forest.” The key is complexity.
In BC, you might see old growth forests with ancient trees that are 5 meters wide. Or you might see forests in high places and in bogs where trees are only 3 meters tall, even though they are hundreds of years old.
Old growth endures
Old-growth forests go through natural events like wildfires, insect outbreaks and storms. These events leave big veteran trees, dead “snag” trees, and rotting wood mixed together. Gaps in the canopy open up so new trees can grow. Forests can regenerate from these events, and a forest that survives may eventually become an old-growth ecosystem.
But it is still at risk
When humans clear-cut forests or cause other industrial impacts, these events do not resemble natural events. Even if a logged forest grows back and becomes “old,” it may never be the same as a natural old-growth forest. The changing climate is also impacting forests that are trying to regrow.
What are Culturally Modified Trees?
Culturally modified trees (CMTs) are trees that Indigenous People have altered as part of their traditional use of the forest.
These trees show us the sustainable harvesting techniques that have been passed down through the ages. First Nations still use these techniques today. CMTs modified before 1846 are protected by law in BC.
However, every year, logging companies get permission from the provincial government to change or destroy these CMTs and the forests where they live. It is very important to safeguard the knowledge that lives in these CMTs and to maintain large cedar trees on the landscape for future use. This helps protect Indigenous culture and keep it alive.
The Tree of Life
On the West Coast, the red cedar is a very important tree. It is called the “tree of life” because almost every part is used in Indigenous cultures the wood, bark, pitch, branches, and roots.
Cedar trees provide material that is used to make shelter, clothing, bedding, medicines, food, canoes, and totem poles. Cedar is also used for spiritual and ceremonial purposes.
Why are Old-Growth Forests Important?
Biodiversity
Old-growth forests have qualities other ecosystems don’t have. They are a unique habitat and home to over 400 different species. Many of these species need old growth to survive, and some are at risk of extinction. Experts think there might be species that haven’t even been discovered yet. Indigenous Peoples have been taking care of old-growth forests for thousands of years, caring for this important habitat.
Old growth and climate change
Old-growth forests absorb large amounts of carbon from the atmosphere and store it away. This is important in the fight against global warming. Larger, older trees and dead trees on the ground also absorb water and hold on to it. This keeps the forest cool and damp. Oldgrowth forests are more resistant to wildfires.
Waterways
Many fish can’t survive in hot temperatures. Large trees in old-growth forests keep streams cool for fish to lay eggs. Fallen tree trunks and branches create hiding places and food for fish. When old-growth forests are logged, it can cause serious problems like soil erosion, mudslides and poor water quality. This can destroy fish habitat.
Cultural heritage
Indigenous Peoples have a strong cultural and spiritual connection to the province’s forests, including old-growth forests. Thousands of people visit BC’s old-growth forests each year to see the amazing trees and do other fun activities. But Indigenous Peoples have been living in these forests for thousands of years, carefully taking care of them. Traditional knowledge shows how to harvest what is needed while keeping the ecosystem healthy.
