Famplified Newsletter
Location
Keystone Ancient Forest
Oklahoma is home to the first and only forest recognized as part of the national Old-Growth Forest Network. This ancient crosstimbers forest has withstood the challenges of ice, fire, and drought, showcasing post oak and redcedar trees that are between 300 and 500 years old. This remarkable forest predates the formation of the United States, reflecting a nearly unbroken history that draws from the essence of its original ecosystem.
The crosstimbers ecosystem once spanned approximately 30,000 square miles, extending from Texas through Oklahoma and into Kansas. It gained its name from early settlers who encountered its dense and formidable woodlands, which were often impassable. The travels of author Washington Irving in 1832 illustrated the difficulties faced by those navigating the area, as he described their frustrations with the 'vexations of flesh and spirit' that arose in their journey through these thick forests.
Remarkably, the dense canopy and rugged terrain of this forest have preserved it from development. Unlike many other areas, these 1,200 acres have largely remained untouched by industrialization, agriculture, and grazing practices. The lack of cotton farming, timber harvesting, and even wildfires has allowed this ancient habitat to endure. This preservation means that around 80 percent of the ancient forests throughout the region have been lost or altered, underscoring the significance of this particular crosstimbers forest as a rare and vital ecological resource.
| Visit Website |
