Environmental restoration is a personal passion due to the severe impacts of deforestation that have occurred across the nation.  Specifically within recent years, we have witnessed extreme weather patterns and a wildlife decline as a result.  

For instance, the Ash trees of Iowa are dying due to an invasive beetle that has spread to all 99 counties of Iowa, according to the Des Moines Register on October 17, 2024.  

Treatments are available for the dying ash, however, some trees are “too far gone” to treat.  Every step we take to protect our woodlands ensures the prosperity of the ecosystem.  The need for a comprehensive plan for additional reforestation in the midwest has been well observed, discussed, and documented.  

Reintroduction of Maple, Oak, and lots of Mullberry trees would be beneficial among other species.  The midwest has five native maple species of trees, including silver maple, sugar maple, black maple, mountain maple, and boxelder. The silver maple is the most common and was often planted by early settlers.  There are twelve different species of oak that are naturally found in the midwest that would also flourish. 

I propose that federal and state owned land utilize space alongside roads for additional reforestation providing another solution.  I suggest that some of the major flood areas that were affected summer of 2024 would be a good place to start.  Soil erosion from flooding can be avoided as roots hold soil together.  Some areas have suffered considerable damage from floods and are worth our attention moving forward.  

Not only do trees assist in redirecting wind, travel on federal roads would become more efficient as a result.  Planting more trees will help control snow drifts in the winter and decrease flood zone impact spring and summer seasons.  One way to control the weather is to have adequate tree and foliage cover, that is scientifically true.  There exists a plethora of benefits that reforestation provides beyond mitigating climate change.  

However, this isn’t a perfect world, lots of trees are dying in many areas of the U.S., but we can still make the midwest a better place. 

The American Forests organization has shown phenomenal dedication by planting nursery grown seedlings post destructive events.  These advocates understand that reforestation encompasses an intricate process from planting new trees, to nurturing nursery grown seedlings, and appropriate placement.  

By signing this petition, you are encouraging both state and federal government to develop a more serious angenda of reforestation.  Let's utilize this plan not only as a remedy for the damage and destruction we have seen, but also as a proactive measure for sustainability.