‘Freak of nature’ tree is the find of a lifetime for forest explorer
A tree hunter’s rare discovery highlights forest conservation efforts The Washington Post
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TJ Watt Discovers Massive Old-Growth Tree in British Columbia
TJ Watt’s Discovery
TJ Watt, a self-described “tree hunter,” has spent half his life exploring forests in British Columbia. He is dedicated to finding and documenting pristine old-growth trees that have never been photographed or documented before. His goal is to draw attention to the importance of saving these natural wonders from logging.
The Discovery of “The Wall”
During an expedition on Flores Island in Clayoquot Sound, Ahousaht territory off the west coast of Vancouver Island, Watt and his friend stumbled upon a gargantuan western red cedar. The tree stood 151 feet tall and had a diameter of 17 and a half feet. It is believed to be over 1,000 years old and is one of the largest old-growth cedars ever documented in British Columbia. Watt nicknamed it “The Wall” due to its massive size.
Importance of Old-Growth Trees
Old-growth trees provide habitat for wildlife and store vast amounts of carbon, making them crucial for biodiversity and climate change mitigation. Unfortunately, about 80% of the original, productive old-growth forests on Vancouver Island have been logged. This highlights the urgent need to protect and preserve these ancient forests.
Ahousaht First Nation’s Efforts
The Ahousaht First Nation, who have lived in the territory for thousands of years, are actively working to protect and preserve old-growth forests. They operate an eco-cultural tour company to showcase some of the territory’s old-growth trees and have protected 80% of their Clayoquot Sound lands. They have also committed to protecting the large tree discovered by Watt.
Challenges and Future Actions
Despite efforts to protect old-growth forests, implementation has been slow, and many conservationists believe more needs to be done. It is essential to acknowledge the value of old-growth trees beyond their timber potential and work towards sustainable forest management practices. TJ Watt’s work in documenting these ancient trees raises public awareness and inspires people to connect with and appreciate these forests.
TJ Watt’s Mission
TJ Watt, supported by National Geographic and the Royal Canadian Geographical Society, is dedicated to exploring and photographing British Columbia’s rugged landscapes. He shares his photos on social media and his Ancient Forest Alliance website to showcase the beauty and importance of old-growth trees.
SDGs, Targets, and Indicators
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SDG 15: Life on Land
- Target 15.1: By 2020, ensure the conservation, restoration, and sustainable use of terrestrial and inland freshwater ecosystems and their services, in particular forests, wetlands, mountains, and drylands, in line with obligations under international agreements.
- Indicator 15.1.2: Proportion of important sites for terrestrial and freshwater biodiversity that are covered by protected areas, by ecosystem type.
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SDG 13: Climate Action
- Target 13.2: Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies, and planning.
- Indicator 13.2.1: Number of countries that have communicated the strengthening of institutional, systemic, and individual capacity-building to implement adaptation, mitigation, and technology transfer.
Analysis
The article highlights the importance of saving old-growth forests from logging and emphasizes the need for conservation and protection of these natural wonders. Based on the content of the article, the following analysis can be made:
1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?
The issues highlighted in the article are connected to SDG 15: Life on Land and SDG 13: Climate Action.
2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?
Based on the article’s content, the specific targets that can be identified are:
- Target 15.1: Ensure the conservation, restoration, and sustainable use of terrestrial and inland freshwater ecosystems and their services, in particular forests.
- Target 13.2: Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies, and planning.
3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?
The article does not explicitly mention any indicators. However, the following indicators can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets:
- Indicator 15.1.2: Proportion of important sites for terrestrial and freshwater biodiversity that are covered by protected areas, by ecosystem type.
- Indicator 13.2.1: Number of countries that have communicated the strengthening of institutional, systemic, and individual capacity-building to implement adaptation, mitigation, and technology transfer.
Table: SDGs, Targets, and Indicators
| SDGs | Targets | Indicators |
|---|---|---|
| SDG 15: Life on Land | Target 15.1: Ensure the conservation, restoration, and sustainable use of terrestrial and inland freshwater ecosystems and their services, in particular forests. | Indicator 15.1.2: Proportion of important sites for terrestrial and freshwater biodiversity that are covered by protected areas, by ecosystem type. |
| SDG 13: Climate Action | Target 13.2: Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies, and planning. | Indicator 13.2.1: Number of countries that have communicated the strengthening of institutional, systemic, and individual capacity-building to implement adaptation, mitigation, and technology transfer. |
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Source: washingtonpost.com
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