In April 2023, Cincinnati Nature Center was inducted into the Old-Growth Network, a national network of protected old-growth forests. During the induction, 96 acres of Rowe Woods was officially certified as old-growth forest. This recognition is an important metric by which we can evaluate our land stewardship practices.

Calendar Age is Just a Number

While the age of a forest could be measured by the number of years it has been in existence, this measurement doesn’t quite capture the entire story of why an old-growth forest is “old”. Although old-growth forests should contain trees that are at least 150 years old, there should also be a diverse assortment of small and medium-sized trees creating a layered forest canopy. There should be many large logs and snags providing habitat for wildlife, and an array of wildflowers, grasses, sedges, and shrubs in the understory. In other words, “old-growth” is not simply a reflection of age, it’s also a reflection of ecological character.

Ohio's History of Deforestation

The existence of old-growth forests in Ohio is somewhat of a miracle. Beginning in the late 1700s, a series of questionable treaties between the state and indigenous tribes led to rampant clearcut logging to make room for agriculture and to fuel a booming timber industry. In fact, by the end of the 19th century, Ohio had earned the dubious distinction of being the fourth-highest timber-producing state in the nation. We were so successful, in fact, that by 1940, Ohio was no more than 10% forested (3 million acres).

Hope for the Future

After World War II and continuing throughout the 70s, there was increasing public interest in forest conservation and outdoor recreation. State agencies like the Ohio Department of Natural Resources and the Division of Natural Areas & Preserves were created to reclaim and replant previously clearcut land. These efforts have increased forest cover in Ohio today to 30%, or just over 8 million acres. Excitingly, Ohio now has more acres of old-growth forest than any other state in the nation. Our inclusion in the Old-Growth Network is certainly an honor, but from a practical perspective, it means that we’re doing a good job, and it confirms that we should continue to place high priority on protecting our forests.