California 2023 - Longbell Ranch

PROJECT REPORT

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT

Dearfriend,

Thanks to your support, a total of 41,000 trees were planted to restore 94 hectaresoflandinCalifornia.

Planting trees in areas that have been degraded or deforested helps the environment by accelerating and assuring the re-establishment of healthy forests. Through reforestation, the canopy is restored, ecosystems are made whole,andbiodiversitycanthrive.

None of this would be possible without you. On behalf of everyone at One Tree Planted,thankyou!

What follows is a report outlining the project you supported in California. I hopeyouenjoyreadingitandtrulyfeeltheimpactyouhavemade.

OVERVIEW

The objective of the California 2023 - Longbell Ranch project was to restore over 200 acres of forest devastated by the 2021 Antelope Fire. By revitalizing this area, this project strives to produce a wealth of ecological and economic advantages. These include mitigating post fire erosion, improving water quality, reestablishing wildlife habitat, and securing essential natural resources for the community’s future. Additionally, reforestation efforts in this area will contribute to the reestablishment of habitat for the iconic Grey wolf (Canis lupus) species, which hasrecentlymadeareturntothestate.

TREES PLANTED

FAMILIES BENEFITED HECTARES REFORESTED

WOMEN INVOLVED

JOBS SUPPORTED

TREE SPECIES PLANTED

For the restoration efforts following the 2021 Antelope Fire, the focus was on implementing wildfire restoration strategies to revive over 200 acres of California forest. Central to this endeavor was the careful selection of tree species, with ponderosa pine (Pinus ponderosa) emerging as a key contender for several compellingreasons.

Ponderosa pine possesses unique attributes that make it exceptionally well-suited for regeneration in areas impacted by wildfires. One of its most notable features is its thick bark, which serves as a natural shield against fire damage. This inherent fire resistance enables ponderosa pine to withstand the intense heat and flames characteristicofwildfires,ensuringitssurvival.

Moreover, Ponderosa pine is renowned for its role as a pioneer species in early forest succession. As such, it plays a crucial role in initiating the ecological recovery process following a wildfire. By rapidly colonizing and establishing itself in burned areas, ponderosa pine sets the stage for the gradual reestablishment of adiverseforestecosystem.

In initiating this reforestation, our on-ground partners conducted meticulous site preparation to create optimal conditions for tree growth. Following this, the Ponderosa pine saplings were hand-planted at a density of approximately 176 trees per acre - an approach that ensures that each tree receives the necessary attention and resources to establish strong root systems and thrive in its new environment. By harnessing the inherent strengths of ponderosa pine, this project not only restores the landscape, but lays the foundation for a more resilient and sustainableforestecosystemnowandinthefuture.

SPECIES PLANTED THROUGH THIS PROJECT

Ponderosa pine (Pinus ponderosa)

TREE SPECIES IDENTIFICATION & USE

Among the 29 pine species found in California is ponderosa pine, scientifically known as Pinusponderosa. With over 100 pine species worldwide, ponderosa pine is unique in that it has two varieties: Pacific (var. ponderosa) and Rocky Mountain (var. scopulorum). Ponderosa pine grows on warm, dry sites where there are no levels of shade and lots of sun. At maturity, ponderosa can reach an average of 60 to 130 ft tall, and can be easily recognized by its cinnamon-colored bark that breaksapartinlargejigsawpuzzle-likepieces.

Ponderosa pine play a vital role in supporting forest ecosystems by offering a range of essential services. Its thick bark and towering crown makes mature ponderosa pine stands highly resistant to wildfires, contributing to the overall resilience of forest ecosystems. In areas prone to fire, these trees serve as a beaconofstability,anchoringthelandscapeandprovidingrefugeforwildlife.

Moreover, ponderosa pine wood is highly prized for its versatility and durability. Ranking second only to Douglas fir in current use, Ponderosa pine wood boasts a nonporous texture and uniform grain, making it a preferred choice for a wide range of applications. From crafting exquisite furniture to constructing sturdy building materials,theusesofPonderosapinewoodareasdiverseastheyareenduring.

The significance of ponderosa pine extends beyond its economic value to its role in supporting wildlife habitat. Its seeds provide a vital source of nutrition for birds and small mammals, while its foliage offers sustenance for grazers such as grouse and deer. Additionally, the gnarled bark and woody structure of the species provides shelter and nesting sites for a myriad of forest creatures, from porcupinesandrodentstocavity-nestingbirds.

In summary, ponderosa pine stands as a cornerstone of forest ecosystems, providing essential services and habitat for a diverse array of wildlife. Its resilience to fire, coupled with its economic and ecological value, underscores the importance of conserving and stewarding this iconic species for generations to come.

YOUR IMPACT ON THE MAP

The California 2023 - Longbell Ranch Restoration project supported the planting of 41,000 ponderosa pine trees across 232 acres near Tennant, California. By reforesting in an area previously devastated by wildfires, this project sought to rejuvenateandrestoretheecologicalintegrityofthelandscape.

The tangible impact of this project serves as a testament to the potential of collaborative conservation efforts. As the newly planted trees take root and flourish, they will represent the power of restoration and the enduring beauty of California'sforests,allwhileprovidingahostofecologicalandeconomicbenefits tothelocalcommunityandwildlife.

DOCUMENTING YOUR IMPACT

Through authentic and informative storytelling, we help donors relate to the people who plant their trees and to the impact they're making for the planet. We share photos, videos, and updates from our global projects across our social media, website, and other media to create a personal connection to the incredible work happeningontheground.

PHOTOS FROM YOUR PROJECT

THE SUPPORT FOR FAMILY FOREST LANDOWNERS IS EXTREMELY BENEFICIAL TO KEEPING FORESTS AS FORESTS.

THANK YOU FOR THE PARTNERSHIP!

ECOLOGICAL BENEFITS

Within the immediate vicinity, this project promises a multitude of ecological advantages for the local environment. Encompassing a spectrum of social and environmental gains for both the community and the broader State of California, the benefits resulting from this project include mitigation of post-fire erosion, enrichmentofwaterqualityandquantity,andpreservationofvitalwildlifehabitats.

The significance of restoring and safeguarding watersheds cannot be overstated, especially in California, where the challenges of climate change and water scarcity loom.Thisprojectisstrategicallylocatedinwatershedscriticaltothestate'swater supply,whichhavesufferedsignificantdamagefromwildfires.

Addingtoitssignificance,thisprojectholdsthepotentialtorestorehabitatforgrey wolves (Canis lupus). These magnificent creatures have only recently returned to California, having been hunted to extinction within state borders over a century ago. As apex predators, Grey Wolves rely on expansive landscapes with thriving ecosystems. Through this project, we aim not only to restore but also to protect vitalhabitatforthisspecies.

Beyond its local impact, this project offers climate benefits on a global scale. By planting trees in California following the a wildfire, we can effectively sequester carbon. What sets this project apart is its long-term climate benefits, as it is implementedonlanddesignatedforsustainablemanagementinperpetuity.

COMMUNITY BENEFITS

This project brings significant benefits to the rural community where it is situated, whichreliesheavilyonnaturalresourcesforeconomicsustenance.Theimmediate economic advantages the project brought included employment of planting crews and foresters. From this extended a ripple effect as crews supported local businessesbyspendingmoneyatshops,restaurants,andhotels.

In addition, planting trees after wildfires instills hope in communities grappling with recent devastation. It fosters a sense of collective resilience and progress towards a brighter future, enriching the community both economically and psychologically. Furthermore, for small family landowners, the project carries profound significance in terms of legacy. By enhancing the chances of maintaining forests for future generations, these landowners can preserve their land's natural beautyandcontinuesharingitwiththeirfamiliesforyearstocome.

U.N. SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS

THIS PROJECT CONTRIBUTED TO THE FOLLOWING SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS:

WHAT ARE SDGS?

Sustainable development entails seeking out solutions that not only boost the economic outcomes of developing and poorer nations, but also work to limit (or eliminate)ourimpactontheplanet.Treesareonesuchsolution.

From creating jobs and reducing hunger to improving gender equality, cleaning air and water, absorbing carbon, protecting life on land and water, and more, planting trees can address all 17 sustainable development goals.

"Thank you for your support in restoring this post fire landscape. Planting trees here will protect, restore, and conserve California’s forest and related resources. As the trees grow, they will improve soil and water conservation, store carbon, moderate the local climate by providing shade, regulate extreme temperatures, increase wildlife habitat and improve the land's capacitytoadapttoclimatechange.”

Danny Global Projects Support Specialist

Brittney Burke Regional Director of Projects North America

Meghan