Reforesting Coastal Redwoods: A Guide to Planting and Conservation Efforts with Forest Unlimited Reforestation Team

Coastal redwoods (Sequoia sempervirens) are among the tallest and most resilient trees in the world, with lifespans extending beyond 2,000 years. However, deforestation and unsustainable logging practices have significantly reduced their historic range. In response, reforestation efforts like those led by the Forest Unlimited Reforestation Team in Jenner, California, have become crucial in restoring these vital ecosystems. By understanding the ecological impact and proper planting techniques, we can contribute to the long-term success of these iconic trees.

Reforesting coastal redwoods is critical for multiple ecological and environmental reasons. Redwoods are among the most effective carbon-storing trees, playing a vital role in mitigating climate change. These forests support a diverse range of species, including endangered ones like the marbled murrelet and northern spotted owl. Additionally, redwoods regulate water cycles, reduce soil erosion, and maintain healthy streams for fish populations. Their unique ability to capture and condense coastal fog helps maintain local humidity and sustain the forest during dry months. 

Unlike commercial logging companies, which have high mortality rates among their replanted trees, Forest Unlimited’s team has a significantly higher success rate due to careful planting techniques, site selection, and post-planting care. Before beginning any planting efforts, safety must be a priority. The Jenner reforestation site is located 45 minutes to an hour away from emergency medical assistance, so precautions must be taken. Volunteers should be aware of steep terrain and hidden hazards like logs, twigs, or even buried fencing in the leaf litter. They must also watch for archaeological artifacts, such as obsidian or worked stone, and report any finds to team leaders, who will notify the Kashaia Pomo Tribe to ensure proper documentation.

The seedlings used in reforestation efforts are one-year-old plugs, grown in nurseries and pre-soaked in a vitamin B-fortified solution to promote root growth. The most critical factor for survival is water, especially in the first two years as the tree roots establish themselves. Each planting site is marked with white flags, which indicate the most suitable locations for seedlings. However, volunteers must assess the ground conditions before planting. Seedlings should be planted within the drip line of existing conifers, as mature trees collect fog, which then drips down onto the young trees, helping them survive dry summers. Soil quality is also important, areas with excessive rocks or compacted soil should be avoided. If large rocks are encountered, they should be removed and replaced with good soil. For sloped terrain, volunteers should extend the planting area downhill, remove excess soil from the upper side to prevent mudslides, and use rocks to form a crescent-shaped barrier to retain moisture around the seedling.

The planting process begins by preparing the site. Volunteers must clear the surface by scalping a 1x3-foot rectangular area, pushing aside sticks, leaves, and grass. The planting hole should be five inches in diameter and slightly deeper than the root system. The hole should be dug at one end of the rectangle rather than in the center. If the seedling has a tight root ball, the bottom should be snipped to allow better root spread. The nodule at the base of the trunk, a slightly thicker section, must remain above the soil line once planted.

When placing the seedling in the hole, volunteers should gently pull upwards as they fill it to prevent sinking. The soil around the roots must be firmly packed to eliminate air pockets, which could cause desiccation (drying out). To test the stability, the seedling should be given a slight pull, if it moves, the soil needs to be repacked. Mulching and watering are essential next steps. The organic duff (forest debris) should be replaced around the seedling to retain moisture and prevent invasive plants from growing. The newly planted seedling must be watered with some of the vitamin B solution from the planting bucket. If available, a biodegradable newspaper sheet can be placed around the base to suppress weeds and retain moisture. To ensure the seedling’s location is known for future care, the flag must be placed directly at the base of the tree after planting.

Since natural rainfall is the primary water source, the team strategically plants during the wet season (January-February) to maximize survival rates. Future volunteers will return to check survival rates, apply additional water, and remove competing vegetation. The Forest Unlimited Reforestation Team has an ambitious goal of planting 10,000 redwoods in January and February 2025. As of now, approximately 3,500 trees have been planted, with 6,500 more to go! Success depends on consistent rainfall through March, careful planting techniques, and community involvement!

Restoring coastal redwoods is about revitalizing an entire ecosystem that has been damaged by deforestation by planting new trees. The work done by Forest Unlimited’s Reforestation Team is making a tangible impact, ensuring that redwoods thrive for generations to come. By following best practices in site selection, planting techniques, and early care, volunteers play a crucial role in increasing survival rates. Their tireless efforts are helping mitigate climate change, restore wildlife habitats, and preserve California’s natural heritage. If you want to contribute to this cause, consider volunteering with Forest Unlimited or supporting their reforestation initiatives. Every tree planted is a step toward a healthier planet.

By Violeta- Gaia Obelar

*To Volunteer planting coastal redwoods contact:
Rick Coates, Harlie Rankin, Chris Thomas

707.889.4981
Reforestation and Tree Planting Volunteer Coordinators
Forest Unlimited Reforestation Team
reforestation.forestunlimited@gmail.com
www.forestunlimited.org