In the 19th century, Michigan played a pivotal role as the primary source of lumber for the rapidly growing nation. To support the construction and development of cities like Chicago and Milwaukee, extensive logging took place, leaving a profound impact on the state’s forests. The once pristine and diverse native forest was replaced by vast monoculture spruce plantations, where a single plant species was cultivated over large areas to maximize profits.

However, the consequences of this approach were far-reaching and detrimental to the local ecosystem. The replacement of diverse forests with monocultures led to the destruction of unique habitats and a significant reduction in biodiversity. The ecosystem’s resilience to climate change was compromised, as monocultures lack the adaptive capacity provided by a diverse range of species. Additionally, the uniformity of the plantations increased the vulnerability of trees to diseases and pests, posing further threats to the long-term health of the forest.

Recognizing the urgent need for ecological restoration, this project focuses on rejuvenating the Michigan Upper Peninsula’s Hiawatha National Forest by enhancing biodiversity through the reintroduction of a wide range of native tree species. By reintroducing these species, the initiative aims to create a more balanced and resilient ecosystem that can better meet the needs of local flora and fauna.

Your support is instrumental in the success of this endeavor. By lending your assistance to this initiative, you will contribute to the creation of an ecosystem that is conducive to the thriving of diverse species such as bears, wolves, and waterfowl. These native species will once again find suitable habitats and resources to support their populations, fostering a healthier and more vibrant ecosystem in the Michigan Upper Peninsula.

It is important to note that the estimations provided for the average lifetime and CO2 offset by the reintroduced tree species are conservative and have been calculated by Evertreen. These estimations are based on extensive research conducted by external consultants, as well as insights gathered from scientific papers, articles, and comparable platforms. They provide a reliable and cautious assessment of the project’s potential environmental benefits, ensuring transparency and accuracy in measuring its impact.