Sleeping Giants: Unexpected Carbon Sinks in Streams

University of Vermont researchers discovered that large, downed trees in streams store significant amounts of carbon, a pool that's growing over time. Field studies in New Hampshire and New York revealed old-growth forests hold four to five times more carbon in stream wood than mature forests. The research highlights the crucial role of large, old trees in forest carbon cycling and the climate change mitigation benefits of preserving old-growth forests. The findings offer valuable insights for Vermont landowners, informing sustainable land management practices that incorporate carbon storage and natural climate solutions.