Eastern forests of the U.S., especially the southeast Appalachians, are biologically the richest forests in North America. Appalachian forests and hollows are also a source of cultural, historical, and spiritual value for people within the region.

After providing habitat and forest products for several centuries, these forests are now nearing maturity again. Yet intensified logging, mining, acid rain from old power plants, and creeping sprawl threaten their ecological integrity.

Remnant stands of old forests and remaining wild forests should be identified and protected. Incentives for private landowners to maintain forest integrity deserve expansion and emphasis.

High-capacity chip mills and mountaintop-removal coal mining should be stopped. Sprawl should be contained, and air pollution lessened by replacing old coal-fired plants with renewable energy.

The Dogwood Alliance Southern Appalachian Forest Coalition Southern Environmental Law Center Appalachian Voices Heartwood The Nature Conservancy SC Coastal Conservation League