Ancient Forest Society envisions a world where ancient trees and forests are valued, protected, and restored for their profound ecological, scientific, and cultural significance.
Ancient Forest Society (a 501(c)(3)) is dedicated to the understanding, protection, and restoration of ancient trees and forests. Through scientific research, preservation initiatives, and immersive educational experiences, we promote the ecological, cultural, and climate benefits of forests worldwide. By fostering connections between people and trees, we work to inspire advocacy, advance sustainable forest management, and ensure that these vital ecosystems thrive for future generations.
Forests are the lungs of our planet, providing essential ecological, economic, and cultural benefits. Among them, old-growth forests stand as irreplaceable ecosystems, offering unparalleled biodiversity, carbon sequestration, and climate resilience. Yet, these ancient landscapes face growing threats from deforestation, climate change, drought, severe wildfires, pests, and pathogens. Preserving old trees and ancient forests is not just an environmental imperative—it is essential for the health of people and our planet.
Forests today face numerous threats that compromise their survival. From deforestation to pests to a changing climate, these threats accelerate forest degradation and reduce their ability to provide critical ecosystem services like carbon sequestration, biodiversity conservation, and climate regulation. Old-growth forests are disappearing at an alarming rate – for example, over 20% of mature giant sequoias have been lost to wildfires and drought between 2020 and 2021. Globally, about one third of old growth forest remains. Urgent action is needed to implement stronger protections, sustainable forest management, and reforestation efforts.
Based in California, Ancient Forest Society works to preserve some of the most iconic and ecologically rich forests in the United States through a combination of scientific research, preservation initiatives, and community engagement. Our interconnected studies provide critical insights into the multi-layered impacts of climate change, guiding conservation efforts to strengthen ecosystem resilience.
We are a proud affiliate member of the Giant Sequoia Lands Coalition.
Our History
The Ancient Forest Society (formerly called The Marmot Society) was born in the giant sequoia groves of Sequoia National Park in the Sierra Nevada mountains of California in 2020. Historic drought in 2012-2016 had severely impacted forests throughout California and provided a preview of the future under a rapidly changing climate. While working in these majestic forests, Anthony, Wendy and Steen were inspired to form an organization dedicated to studying and protecting giant sequoias and other ancient trees and forests.
