Three climbers next to one of the largest known Champion Coast Redwood trees. PHOTO: Archangel
A wonderful new article in The New York Times Magazine, “Can We Save the Redwoods by Helping Them Move?” is a captivating exploration into the innovative and sometimes controversial concept of assisted migration.
The piece follows the endeavors of Philip Stielstra and his organization, PropagationNation, who, inspired by Archangel co-founder David Milarch, are working towards relocating coast redwood and giant sequoia trees to the Pacific Northwest.
About the New York Times Article
What makes this article particularly enlightening is its multifaceted approach to the topic. It not only delves into the ecological and environmental benefits of such an initiative, such as carbon storage and climate change mitigation but also brings potential drawbacks and challenges to light.
Assisted Migration Helps Trees Find a New Home
Philip Stielstra has a big dream. He wants to plant many redwood trees in a new place, far from their original home. Why? Because he believes these trees can help our planet by storing lots of carbon. Historically, redwoods had a broader habitat range, which included more northern regions. We might be giving them a fighting chance against climate change by reintroducing them to such regions.
A Book That Sparks Action
Philip didn’t just wake up one day with this idea. He read a book about Milarch’s life and work called “The Man Who Planted Trees” by Jim Robbins (the book is available in our online store). After reading it, Philip felt inspired to make a difference through working with trees.
Taking Action in Seattle
Philip planned to move young redwood trees to Seattle. This is a place far north from where these trees usually grow. With the help of his group, PropagationNation, he started planting copies of Archangel Champion Trees in parks and other spots around the city.
Big Goals for the Future
Philip has set his eyes on a big goal. He wants to plant one million redwood trees every year by 2027. That’s a lot of trees! All these trees will help store more carbon and make our earth healthier.
Why This Matters
Some people might ask, “Why is Philip doing this?” Well, our planet is changing. The weather is getting warmer, and trees like redwoods can help. By planting them in new places, we give them a chance to grow and help us in return.
I have been a supporter since Archangel’s early days, and I say, “Bless these trees and their brilliant caretakers for millions of years to come.”
Thank you, Beth! People like you make this project possible. So important!
If these trees can grow in New Zealand and on Haleakala on Maui, they can certainly grow and even thrive in the Pacific Northwest. I keep reading of groves of Sempervirons planted all over the world that are doing well.
As an Archangel’s supporter, and also one influenced by the book “The Man Who Planted Trees”, Philip Stielstra’s mission gives me hope.
Our planet is undergoing such a serious challenge, and with such passion and dedication exhibited by Peter in repopulating our regal Giants, over time we can start healing our badly scarred home.
Wish I could read this article, but NY Times wants money first. It would be great if someone could paste the text somewhere. Thanks!
Hi Michael. Yes, this article is behind the New York Times paywall, so it’s not right to share the entire contents. New subscribers can get the Times for $1/week for the first six months. We think it’s worth it! 🙂
Thank you to the people who conceived this world-changing idea and who are helping to do this work! I hope these magnificent trees can also be planted in the northernmost parts of Maine, as well; and possibly all across the northern US. What a wonderful gift you have given our planet, and our great-grandchildren! Thank you!
We appreciate your support, Helen! Did you know we’re working on an East Coast Champion tree collection? Check it out here: https://www.ancienttreearchive.org/east-coast-tree-collection/
We live in Ludington on Lake Michigan and have about 30 Great Sequoias that my husband start as seedlings, then he move them to pots and then when they were about 4’ tall planted them on our property. They are about 35’ tall now and doing quite well. The lake acts as a micro climate for these trees.
Remarkably, these trees can survive in so many places. Their natural range is threatened by severe drought caused by our overheating climate. We have to reduce our dependence on fossil fuels while restoring our ecosystem.
It’s not hard to get involved. You can make a difference by sponsoring the planting of a Champion tree. Check it out: https://www.ancienttreearchive.org/product-category/certificates-of-planting/
That is so impressive. I hope they grow and thrive. Thank you to you and your husband.
The mutual, symbiotic relationship between a tree and human is sacred. One breathes out, the other breathes in. Makes so much sense to be moving the giants closer to where people live. Best of luck with your steadfast endeavours for our planet! ~ a supporter of Archangel & the Old Growth Forest Network.
Thank you, Marta!
I had reached out in the past to see if there was a possibility for projects in PacificNorthwest ,British Columbia in Canada.,,.there is also the oldest sitka spruces out there y that could be bpropagated….wildfires are a big concern around here. And we need to take action for regenerative p
To the Archangel team and all related endeavors – thank you all for continuing this vital work – the planet needs you! I have been a supporter of Archangel for many years and am so happy to hear there are other groups participating in this work.
Keep up the good work.
Thank you for being so supportive, Gwynne! We couldn’t do this work without you!
About 45 years ago I put a few seeds of a sequoia in a pot. It started growing and it now is a big tree in our 7 x 7 meter masonry garden in the Netherlands, maybe the tallest tree of all others nearby.