By Claire Bosselmann, summer intern

Is Older Better?

In many ways, yes—especially when discussing the freedom of retirement, aged scotch, and the magnificence of old-growth forests.

Old growth forests are ecosystems that develop over many decades without significant disturbance. These ancient woodlands possess unique characteristics that make them exceptionally valuable. Their resilience is enhanced by increased genetic diversity, among both plants and animals, which increases the stability and health of an ecosystem. Structural diversity of plants and a layered canopy of varying age classes provides a variety of habitats, for a multitude of species. With these characteristics, old-growth forests become hot-spots for biodiversity. The Wisconsin DNR defines old-growth as “natural stands that have developed over a period of time, generally at least 120 years, without experiencing a stand replacing disturbance.”

If you’ve ever experienced the feeling of walking through an old-growth forest, it is truly something spectacular. These forests are at least 120 years old; they’ve been the home to hundreds of thousands of birds, mammals, amphibians, and millions of insects. Some of the oldest trees have experienced the changing of the seasons at least 500 times.

The true glory of old-growth forests isn’t just in their lush greenery, towering trees or the cool breeze provided by the shade, but foremost in the richness of their soil. Over decades, organic carbon accumulates on the forest floor from fallen biomass, creating a fertile, carbon-rich environment that all critters and plants rely on. Within that soil there’s a complex world of mycorrhizal networks and microbial communities that have built themselves throughout the lifetime of the forest. Microbial communities help in the nutrient cycling and breakdown of organic materials on the forest floor, and mycorrhizal networks benefit plants by creating a mutualistic relationship through a trade of phosphorus and magnesium. The intricate soil creates an ideal environment for the next generation of plants to grow successfully. These are just some of the wonders of old growth forests that are invisible to the human eye.

Since becoming recognized as vital carbon sinks, old-growth forests have gained increased protection under Executive Order 14072, issued in April 2022. They are a key to mitigating the effects of climate change, as land use change is one of the largest contributors to global warming. Equally important is maintaining high genetic diversity among plants and animals, which allows for more opportunities of survival to our changing world.

Wisconsin is the home to few recognized mature forests, mostly residing in the Northern side of the state and only amounting to 0.2% of total forests in Wisconsin. Old-growth forests in the state are limited due to clear-cutting that occurred in the late 1800’s and early 1900’s. If you’re hoping to experience an old-growth forest in Wisconsin, consider hiking in the Cathedral Pines located in Chequamegon–Nicolet National Forest’s Lakewood-Laona Ranger District.

So, when talking about aging, many things can become better with time; appreciation for fine wines and aged cheeses, the soil beneath our feet, and policies protecting our forests.

Photo of old growth by Anna Kovach