Forests Of The United States Map: Management & Gis

The United States exhibits diverse forest ecosystems, and these ecosystems play critical roles. Forest Service is responsible for managing and protecting national forests and grasslands, and the agency develops forest management plans. Mapping is essential for understanding these resources, and geographic information systems (GIS) provide tools for creating and analyzing forest maps. These maps display forest types, tree densities, and conservation efforts, therefore, it is critical to understand the forests of the United States map.

Okay, folks, buckle up! We’re about to embark on a virtual hike through the lush, breathtaking, and downright massive forests of the United States. I’m not talking about your local park with a few sad-looking trees (though those are nice too!). I’m talking about the real deal – the untamed wilderness that stretches from coast to coast and makes up a vital part of America’s identity.

The Significance of Forests in the U.S.

Why should you care about these giant jungles? Well, imagine a world without clean air to breathe, sparkling rivers to drink from, or that cozy wooden cabin you’ve always dreamed of owning. That’s right, forests are the unsung heroes of our planet. They’re not just pretty faces; they’re ecological powerhouses, economic engines, and playgrounds for the adventurous souls among us.

• Ecologically, they’re the lungs of the Earth, sucking up carbon dioxide and spitting out the sweet, sweet oxygen we need to survive. They’re also home to a mind-boggling array of plants and animals, creating a delicate balance of life that’s essential for a healthy planet.
• Economically, forests are a goldmine! Think timber for building, paper for writing (or, you know, printing out cat memes), and all sorts of other valuable resources. Plus, they fuel the tourism industry, attracting visitors from far and wide who want to experience the magic of nature firsthand.
• Recreationally, forests are where the fun happens! Hiking, camping, fishing, hunting, birdwatching – you name it, you can probably do it in a forest. They’re the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life, a place to reconnect with nature and recharge your batteries.

Mapping Forest Types and Regions

Now, imagine you’re trying to navigate this vast, green landscape. It would be like trying to find a specific grain of sand on a beach, right? That’s where forest mapping comes in. By creating detailed maps of different forest types and regions, scientists and conservationists can get a better handle on what’s out there, where it is, and how to protect it.

These maps aren’t just pretty pictures, either. They’re powerful tools that can help us:

• Understand forest distribution: Where are the different types of forests located, and how are they connected?
• Monitor forest health: Are forests growing and thriving, or are they under threat from pests, diseases, or climate change?
• Plan conservation efforts: How can we best protect these valuable ecosystems for future generations?

A Compelling Fact About U.S. Forests

To really drive home the importance of these woodlands, let’s drop a mind-blowing statistic on you: U.S. forests cover over 750 million acres, which is roughly one-third of the entire country’s land area! And these forests sequester (aka suck up) around 12% of the nation’s carbon emissions annually. Yeah, they’re kind of a big deal.

So, get ready to dive deep into the world of American forests. You’ll learn about the different types of forests, the regions they inhabit, and the importance of mapping and protecting these invaluable natural resources.

Unveiling the Tapestry: Major Forest Types Across the U.S.

Imagine the United States as a giant, vibrant quilt, where each patch represents a different kind of forest. From the towering evergreens of the Pacific Northwest to the colorful deciduous trees of the East Coast, the variety is staggering. Let’s take a journey through these incredible woodlands and uncover the secrets of their unique beauty.

Coniferous Forests: Evergreen Giants

Think of these forests as the evergreen soldiers of the tree world. Coniferous trees, like pines, spruces, and firs, are masters of adaptation, sporting needle-like leaves and cones that protect their seeds. These trees are tough cookies, thriving in colder climates and often found in the Pacific Northwest, Rocky Mountains, and even parts of the Southeast.

• Characteristics: Evergreen, cone-bearing, adapted to colder climates.
• Geographic Distribution: Pacific Northwest, Rocky Mountains, Southeast.

Temperate Deciduous Forests: A Seasonal Spectacle

Prepare for a show! Temperate deciduous forests are the chameleons of the forest world, transforming with each season. These forests are known for their vibrant displays of color in autumn, as trees like oak, maple, and beech shed their leaves for the winter. You’ll find these forests primarily in the Eastern U.S., where they enjoy distinct seasons.

• Characteristics: Leaf shedding in autumn, distinct seasons.
• Geographic Distribution: Eastern U.S.

Mixed Forests: The Best of Both Worlds

Why choose when you can have both? Mixed forests are where coniferous and deciduous trees mingle, creating a diverse and dynamic landscape. These transition zones offer a bit of everything, with the resilience of evergreens and the seasonal beauty of deciduous trees.

• Characteristics: A combination of coniferous and deciduous trees.
• Geographic Distribution: Transition zones between deciduous and coniferous forests.

Boreal Forests (Taiga): The Land of the North

Venture north to the land of the Taiga, also known as the Boreal Forest. These vast and cold forests are dominated by coniferous trees like spruce and fir, creating a landscape that’s both beautiful and challenging. Alaska is a prime example of where you’ll find these hardy forests.

• Characteristics: Cold climate, dominated by coniferous trees like spruce and fir.
• Geographic Distribution: Alaska.

Temperate Rainforests: Lush and Verdant

Prepare to be amazed by the lush and verdant world of temperate rainforests. These forests are characterized by high rainfall, creating an environment where plants thrive. Coniferous trees dominate these forests, creating a magical landscape that’s unlike anything else. Look no further than the Pacific Northwest if you are looking to find this amazing sight.

• Characteristics: High rainfall, lush vegetation, coniferous trees.
• Geographic Distribution: Pacific Northwest.

Meet the Stars: Key Tree Species

No forest tour is complete without meeting the stars of the show. Here are a few key tree species you’ll encounter on your journey:

• Oak: Majestic and strong, a symbol of resilience.
• Maple: Known for its sweet sap and vibrant fall colors.
• Pine: Versatile and adaptable, found in a variety of climates.
• Spruce: Graceful and aromatic, a staple of northern forests.
• Fir: Elegant and fragrant, often used as Christmas trees.
• Redwood: Towering giants, some of the tallest trees on Earth.
• Sequoia: Ancient and massive, symbols of longevity.
• Douglas Fir: Important timber tree, a key species in the Pacific Northwest.

Appalachian Forests: Ancient Mountains, Vibrant Woods

Imagine the rolling, mist-shrouded mountains of Appalachia, a land where the forests feel like they’ve been whispering secrets for centuries. These forests are a biodiversity hotspot, teeming with a stunning array of plant and animal life. Dominated by deciduous trees like oak, hickory, maple, and beech, they put on a spectacular show each autumn as the leaves explode into a riot of color.

But the Appalachian forests are more than just pretty scenery. They’re incredibly important for ecological reasons. Think of them as giant sponges, filtering our water and keeping it clean as it flows into rivers and streams. They also act as carbon sinks, helping to combat climate change by sucking carbon dioxide out of the atmosphere. And let’s not forget the key species! From the iconic American Chestnut (making a comeback!) to the elusive black bear, these forests are home to a fascinating array of creatures.

Pacific Northwest Forests: Giants of the West

Picture this: towering trees so massive they seem to scrape the sky, a constant drizzle that keeps everything lush and green, and the sound of rushing water echoing through the valleys. Welcome to the Pacific Northwest, home to some of the most impressive temperate rainforests on the planet!

These forests are defined by their old-growth stands, ancient ecosystems that have been developing for hundreds, even thousands, of years. They’re dominated by coniferous giants like Douglas Fir, Redwood, and Western Hemlock, trees so large they inspire awe. Economically, the area is really significant to timber production. Ecologically, it supports salmon habitat. And the forests are vital for species of all kind!

Rocky Mountain Forests: Reaching for the Sky

Head east and you’ll encounter the rugged beauty of the Rocky Mountains, where the forests are as diverse as the landscape itself. Stretching from Canada to Mexico, these forests are a patchwork of different elevations and climates, resulting in a wide variety of tree species.

At lower elevations, you’ll find ponderosa pine and Douglas fir, while higher up, Engelmann spruce and subalpine fir dominate. These forests play a crucial role in watershed protection, capturing snow and releasing it slowly throughout the year, ensuring a steady supply of water for communities downstream. They also provide critical wildlife habitat, supporting everything from elk and deer to grizzly bears and mountain lions.

Southeastern Coastal Plain Forests: Piney Woods and Wetlands

Journey to the Southeast and you’ll discover a different kind of forest altogether: the Southeastern Coastal Plain. Characterized by its flat terrain, sandy soils, and abundant wetlands, this region is dominated by pine forests, particularly loblolly and longleaf pine.

These forests are incredibly important for timber production, providing a valuable source of wood for construction and paper products. They also provide crucial habitat for endangered species like the red-cockaded woodpecker and the gopher tortoise. The ecological significane is the timber production, and habitat for endangered species.

New England Forests: A Tapestry of Colors

New England’s forests are a beautiful mix of deciduous and coniferous trees, creating a stunning tapestry of colors, especially in the fall. Here, you’ll find sugar maples, American beeches, white pines, and eastern hemlocks, all contributing to the region’s unique character.

Beyond their aesthetic appeal, these forests are vital to New England’s tourism industry, drawing visitors from around the world to witness the spectacular fall foliage. They’re also important for maple syrup production, a sweet treat that’s synonymous with the region.

Great Lakes Forests: A Meeting of Ecosystems

Venture into the heart of the country and you’ll find the Great Lakes forests, a transition zone where different forest types converge. This region is a melting pot of species, with elements of both boreal forests to the north and temperate deciduous forests to the south.

Here, you’ll find a mix of pines, birches, maples, and oaks, creating a diverse and resilient ecosystem. The Great Lakes forests play a crucial role in maintaining water quality, filtering pollutants and preventing erosion. They also provide abundant recreational opportunities, from fishing and boating to hiking and camping.

Guardians of the Woods: Federal Agencies and Forest Management

Alright, picture this: America’s vast forests are like a giant, green, leafy playground, and a few awesome federal agencies are the super chill lifeguards making sure everyone plays nice and the trees stay healthy. Let’s meet these guardians of the woods!

United States Forest Service (USFS): The Multi-Tasking Maestro

Think of the USFS as the ultimate party planner for our National Forests and Grasslands. They’re not just about hugging trees (though they probably do that too); they juggle a ton of responsibilities. From responsibly harvesting timber (gotta build those log cabins!), to making sure you have killer hiking trails and campgrounds, the USFS aims to balance recreation, resource extraction, and plain ol’ conservation. They’re like the Swiss Army knife of forest management, handling everything from wildfire prevention to protecting endangered species.

National Park Service (NPS): The Preservation Perfectionist

The NPS is all about keeping our National Parks pristine and protected. Imagine them as the Zen masters of the forest world. Their main gig is preservation, ensuring these natural treasures remain unspoiled for generations. But don’t think they’re all about “look but don’t touch.” The NPS also wants you to experience the parks, providing visitor access and educational programs. They’re there to help you connect with nature, all while making sure we don’t love our parks to death.

Bureau of Land Management (BLM): The “Jack of All Trades” Land Manager

The BLM manages a huge chunk of public lands, and forests are just one piece of the puzzle. They operate under a “multiple use” philosophy, which basically means they’re juggling a bunch of different interests. Grazing, mining, recreation, and timber harvesting all fall under their purview, alongside conservation. They’re constantly working to strike a balance between resource use and protecting the environment, which can be a tough act to pull off.

United States Geological Survey (USGS): The Science Sleuth

Last but not least, we have the USGS, the brainiacs of the bunch. These folks are all about collecting data and conducting research to understand our forests better. They’re not directly managing the land like the other agencies, but they provide the critical scientific information that informs everyone else’s decisions. Think of them as the Sherlock Holmes of the forest, uncovering the mysteries of our woodlands to help us protect them better.

So, next time you’re wandering through a national forest or hiking in a national park, remember these awesome agencies are working hard to keep our forests healthy and accessible. They’re the unsung heroes of the American wilderness!

Mapping Our Forests: Tools and Technologies

Okay, so we’ve talked about the amazing forests that stretch across the U.S., but how do we actually keep track of all that leafy goodness? It’s not like we can just eyeball it, right? Nope! That’s where some seriously cool tools and technologies come into play. Think of it as detective work, but for trees! These technologies allow experts to have a comprehensive view of what’s happening with our woodland areas. All this information helps us take care of our forests and keep them healthy for, like, ever.

Now, let’s dive into some of the key players in this high-tech game of forest mapping.

National Forest Inventory (NFI)

Ever wondered if there’s a massive database of trees? Well, kinda! That’s basically what the National Forest Inventory is. It’s like a super-detailed census, but instead of counting people, they’re counting trees. They are taking notes on all different kinds of forest resources like tree species, how much wood they have, and how fast the trees are growing. This information is crucial for understanding how our forests are changing and making informed decisions about how to manage them.

Forest Inventory and Analysis (FIA) Program

Think of the Forest Inventory and Analysis (FIA) Program as the NFI’s super-powered sibling. This program doesn’t just collect data; it analyzes it. They’re all about gathering stats, breaking them down, and then publishing reports that show us everything from forest health to changes in land use. They help everyone understand what’s happening in our forests so we can make the best choices about keeping them healthy.

Geographic Information Systems (GIS) data

Alright, let’s get a little techy. Geographic Information Systems (GIS) are basically magical maps on steroids. They allow us to layer all sorts of information—like forest types, habitat areas, and even soil data—onto a map. This allows for in-depth spatial data for mapping and analyzing of forests like mapping the forest types or analysis of different habitats.

Remote Sensing Data

Ever thought about mapping forests from space? That’s what remote sensing is all about! Using satellites and aircraft, we can collect data about forests from afar. This data is perfect for figuring out things like land cover, detecting forest disturbances (like fires or deforestation), and monitoring changes over time. It’s like having a birds-eye view of our forests – literally!

National Land Cover Database (NLCD)

Last, but definitely not least, we have the National Land Cover Database (NLCD). This database is basically a giant encyclopedia of land cover information for the entire U.S. It is a very useful database for various land covering information in the U.S. such as forest area estimation or land use change analysis. This helps us estimate how much forest area we have, track changes in land use, and understand the overall landscape.

So, there you have it! A glimpse into the awesome world of forest mapping tools and technologies. It may sound a little complicated, but all this tech helps us understand, manage, and protect our precious forests for generations to come.

Understanding Forest Dynamics: It’s More Than Just Trees!

Alright, let’s ditch the idea that forests are just pretty places with lots of trees. They’re actually bustling cities of life, where everything’s connected! To understand how these green metropolises work, we need to dive into some key ecological concepts. Think of it as peeking behind the curtain to see the amazing show that’s always playing out in the woods.

The A-List: Biodiversity

First up, we have biodiversity. Basically, this is the party guest list. It’s about all the different species living in the forest—from the towering trees to the teeny-tiny fungi, and all the critters in between. The more diverse the guest list, the better the party! A forest with high biodiversity is like a super-team of nature. It’s more resilient to change and keeps the whole ecosystem humming.

Ecosystem Services: Nature’s Freebies

Now, let’s talk about ecosystem services. These are the free benefits we get from healthy forests. Think of them as nature’s way of saying, “Thanks for not paving me over!”. We’re talking about clean air and water—who doesn’t love breathing fresh air or drinking pure water? And forests are carbon sequestration champions, sucking up carbon dioxide like a giant vacuum cleaner and helping to keep climate change in check. Oh, and let’s not forget the good old-fashioned timber – useful for building, furniture, and much more.

Uh Oh, Trouble’s Brewing: Threats to Forest Health

Unfortunately, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows in our forest cities. There are some serious threats we need to talk about.

Habitat Fragmentation: Breaking Up the Neighborhood

Habitat fragmentation is a big one. Imagine slicing a forest into smaller, isolated patches. It’s like building walls in a city, making it harder for wildlife to move around, find food, and, well, find love! This leads to a loss of biodiversity and smaller, less healthy animal populations.

Old-Growth Forests: The Wise Elders

Then there are old-growth forests, the ancient and wise elders of the forest world. These forests have been around for a long time, and they’re like living libraries of genetic information. They provide unique habitat for many species and are masters of carbon storage. Losing them is like losing a priceless piece of history.

Deforestation: Clearing Out the City

And of course, there’s deforestation, which is like bulldozing the entire forest city. It leads to habitat loss, soil erosion, and contributes to climate change. Not cool, people, not cool.

Reforestation: Rebuilding the Green Metropolis

But fear not, there’s hope! Reforestation is like rebuilding our forest cities. It’s the process of replanting forests, which helps with carbon sequestration and restores habitat. It’s a win-win!

Wildfires: Nature’s Fiery Tantrums

Wildfires are another threat. While fire can be a natural part of some forest ecosystems, uncontrolled fires can be devastating, leading to habitat loss and air pollution.

Invasive Species: Uninvited Guests

Invasive species are like those annoying party crashers who eat all the snacks and make a mess. They can outcompete native species and spread diseases, disrupting the whole forest ecosystem.

Climate Change: The Ultimate Game Changer

And last but not least, there’s climate change, the biggest threat of them all. It’s causing shifts in species distribution and increasing the risk of wildfires. It’s like turning up the heat in the forest and watching everything struggle to adapt.

Forest Pests and Diseases: The Silent Killers

Forest pests and diseases are a constant threat, quietly weakening and killing trees, leading to tree mortality and reduced growth rates, impacting the overall health and productivity of the forest.

Why This Matters: Sustainable Forest Management

So, why should you care about all this? Because understanding these ecological concepts is crucial for sustainable forest management. We need to find ways to use our forests responsibly, balancing economic needs with the need to protect these vital ecosystems. After all, we need our forest cities to keep thriving for generations to come!

Managing for the Future: Sustainable Forest Practices

So, you might be thinking, “Okay, forests are cool and all, but how do we make sure they stick around for my grandkids to enjoy?” That’s where sustainable forestry comes in! Think of it like this: we’re trying to have our cake and eat it too – use the resources forests provide today, without screwing things up for tomorrow.

• Sustainable forestry is all about finding that sweet spot where we can meet our present needs without totally compromising future generations. It’s like the golden rule for forest management!

  • Think selective harvesting (taking only some trees and leaving the rest to grow),
  • Committing to vigorous reforestation efforts (planting new trees to replace the ones we use), and

  • prioritizing biodiversity conservation (making sure we don’t wipe out entire species in the process).

  • It’s all about creating a balanced ecosystem that can thrive for generations!

National Forest Management Act (NFMA)

Now, you can’t just waltz into a forest with a chainsaw and do whatever you want (well, you shouldn’t anyway). That’s where the National Forest Management Act (NFMA) steps in. This is basically the bible of how we manage our national forests.

• The NFMA sets the stage for the sustainable management of our national forests!

  • It guides the planning process, making sure we don’t just chop down trees willy-nilly.
  • It insists on public involvement, because hey, these forests belong to all of us!

  • And, most importantly, it emphasizes environmental protection.

  • This act helps ensure that our forests are managed with a long-term vision in mind!

Forests and Our Economy: The Value of Recreation

Did you know that our forests aren’t just pretty faces? They’re also economic powerhouses, especially when it comes to recreation! When you think of a relaxing hike, a cozy camping trip, or the thrill of the hunt, you’re not just unwinding—you’re also contributing to the economy. Let’s dive into how these activities translate into cold, hard cash (and warmer, fuzzier feelings about our woods).

Recreation: More Than Just Fun and Games

Hiking, camping, and hunting are more than just fun ways to spend a weekend; they’re significant drivers of tourism, which leads to job creation and revenue generation. Picture this: a family travels from out of state to hike a famous trail. They need a place to stay, meals to eat, and maybe a souvenir or two. All that spending goes directly into the local economy, supporting businesses and communities.

Think about it:

• Tourism: Forests draw in tourists like moths to a flame. These tourists need accommodations, food, transportation, and gear, all injecting money into local businesses.
• Job Creation: From park rangers to guides to the friendly faces at the local outdoor gear shop, forest recreation creates a wide range of employment opportunities.
• Revenue Generation: Entrance fees, permits, licenses, and taxes from forest-related activities all contribute to government revenue, which can be reinvested in forest management and conservation.

So, the next time you’re enjoying a forest adventure, remember that you’re not just having a good time—you’re also helping to keep the economy ‘green’! And that’s something to smile about.

Your Forest Adventure Awaits: Exploring Recreational Areas

Ready to lace up your boots and get lost…in a good way? America’s forests are calling! They’re not just trees; they’re giant playgrounds offering everything from serene hikes to adrenaline-pumping adventures. Let’s unearth some fantastic spots where you can immerse yourself in nature’s embrace.

National Forests: Your Backyard Wilderness

Think of National Forests as America’s shared backyard – massive, diverse, and always open for exploration. Managed by the US Forest Service (USFS), these areas are a treasure trove of outdoor fun.

• Hiking Trails: From gentle strolls to challenging climbs, the trail options are endless. The Appalachian Trail winds through many National Forests, offering a taste of long-distance hiking.
• Campgrounds: Pitch your tent under a canopy of stars. National Forests often boast well-maintained campgrounds with amenities. Check recreation.gov for reservations!
• Fishing Areas: Cast a line in crystal-clear streams and lakes. Many National Forests are havens for anglers, with trout, bass, and other fish species aplenty. Be sure to grab a fishing license!

Accessibility is key; many National Forests have paved roads leading to trailheads and campgrounds. However, some areas require a four-wheel-drive vehicle for deeper exploration.

National Parks: Iconic Landscapes & Unforgettable Experiences

National Parks, managed by the National Park Service (NPS), are like nature’s greatest hits album. These are the landscapes you see in postcards, the places that leave you breathless.

• Scenic Drives: Cruise along winding roads that offer panoramic views. Think the Blue Ridge Parkway, or the Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park.
• Visitor Centers: Start your adventure at a visitor center for maps, exhibits, and ranger programs. You’ll learn fascinating facts about the park’s history, geology, and wildlife.
• Ranger Programs: Join a ranger-led hike, campfire talk, or stargazing session. These programs offer unique insights and enhance your understanding of the natural world.

While National Parks often have developed facilities and services, be prepared for crowds, especially during peak season. Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring or fall) for a quieter experience.

Wilderness Areas: Untamed & Unforgettable

For those seeking a true escape, Wilderness Areas offer a taste of untamed nature. These federally protected zones, managed by various agencies including the USFS and NPS, prioritize preservation above all else.

• Primitive Camping: Embrace the simplicity of camping without amenities. Wilderness Areas offer designated spots, where you can connect with nature in its rawest form.
• Hiking: Navigate unmarked trails and immerse yourself in solitude. These trails often demand wayfinding experience.
• Wildlife Viewing: Observe wildlife in their natural habitat, far from the noise and disturbance of civilization. Keep a respectful distance and follow “Leave No Trace” principles.

Remember that Wilderness Areas come with specific regulations. Motorized vehicles and equipment are generally prohibited, and group sizes may be limited. Prepare to carry everything you need, including water and navigation tools.

Reading the Map: Key Elements for Understanding

Ever tried to decipher a treasure map only to end up more lost than when you started? Forest maps can feel the same way if you don’t know what you’re looking at. They’re not just pretty pictures of trees; they’re packed with information about forest types, land cover, and even navigation. Let’s break down the key ingredients so you can become a map-reading whiz!

Unlocking the Legend: What Do Those Symbols Mean?

The legend is like the map’s Rosetta Stone. It’s where you’ll find the meaning behind all those weird symbols and colors splashed across the page. Think of it as the key to understanding the map’s visual language.

• Forest Type Representation: The legend will show you what color represents a coniferous forest versus a deciduous one. It’s like a color-coded guide to the trees!
• Land Cover Categories: Beyond just trees, the legend also defines other land cover types like water bodies, grasslands, or urban areas. It helps you see the forest and everything around it.

Cracking the Code: Scale – How Big Is This Forest, Really?

Ever wondered how they fit a whole forest onto a single piece of paper? The scale is the answer. It tells you the relationship between distances on the map and the actual distances on the ground. It’s usually expressed as a ratio, like 1:24,000, which means one inch on the map equals 24,000 inches (or 2,000 feet) in the real world.

• Determining Area and Distances: Use the scale to measure how far it is between two points on the map, or to estimate the size of a forest area. Remember your ruler!

Finding Your Way: The North Arrow – Your Compass on Paper

Feeling disoriented? The north arrow is your best friend. It’s a simple arrow (usually pointing straight up) that indicates the direction of north on the map. This helps you orient yourself and understand the directions of different features.

• Orientation and Navigation: With the north arrow, you can easily figure out which way is east, west, south, and so on. Essential for not getting lost!

The Art of Projection: How to Flatten a Sphere

The Earth is round, but maps are flat. Turning a sphere into a flat surface is tricky, and it always involves some distortion. Projections are the methods cartographers use to minimize these distortions.

• Understanding Distortion and Accuracy: Different projections preserve different properties, like area, shape, distance, or direction. Some projections are better for certain purposes than others, so it’s good to know which one was used. A world map projection will be far more distorted than a map of your local forest.

So, next time you’re planning a road trip or just daydreaming about nature, pull up a forests of the United States map. It’s a fascinating way to see the sheer diversity and beauty packed into our country’s woodlands. Who knows, you might just discover your next adventure!