American Forests is a nonprofit organization composed of a group of people who care about the forests and work to conserve them. It is the oldest national organization in United States that focuses on promoting the protection and expansion of America’s forestry. Since 1990, they have already planted over 40 million trees in different forests across the country. Aside from caring for the forests, they have also helped restore watersheds to provide clean drinking water to beneficiary communities. The group replants and revives forests that have been destroyed by humankind’s destructive actions, as well as natural disasters.

The organization’s work and advocacy are both guided by science. They choose the right mix of trees to plant in particular locations: which trees best act as windbreakers, which can filter water, which can provide wildlife habitat, and which are appropriate for parks and city streets. 

American Forests also aim to help keep policymakers informed about how trees react and interact with climate, manage water, sequester carbon, and benefit cities in general. They also work to explain that facilitating ecological services involving trees have real and measurable economic value, as well. The organization also advocates for and work in federal state and urban forests. Their work also takes them beyond the borders of the country at times. 

As the oldest national nonprofit conservation organization in the United States, American Forests’s history can be traced back to 1875 when a group of forward-thinking citizens met in Chicago, sharing the goal of protecting the existing forests in the country. The American Forestry Association was then founded, led by physician and horticulturalist John Aston Warder. The association expanded its conservation focus and in 1992, its name was changed to American Forests. 

American Forests addresses its mission by facilitating various activities and programs. They plan trees, ensure the health of urban forests, restore forest ecosystems, educate the public, and advocate for the development of sound forest policies.