Temperate Rain Forest (1998) - Page 1

This is a temperate rain forest, still typical on Haida Gwaii, but rare on the planet.

The upper canopy protects the forest below from extreme temperature changes.

Shafts of sunlight urge the sapling ever upward.

Lichens on old trees provide important nutrients.

The force of the falling rain is broken by the canopy. This limits soil erosion.

Low light and slow growth means the the wood grain is tight, strong and true.

Few branches mean less knots.

Low light favors mosses. They hold water in reserve for dry spells.

How is this forest different from a clearcut?