Western Washington is known for its lush forests, giving the state its nickname "The Evergreen State," which provides extensive hectares of quality forests to harvest timber. Western Washington's unique temperate climate fosters the growth of large evergreen trees like the Douglas Fir, Western Hemlock, and Western Red Cedar, whose timber is of pristine quality. The demand for Washington's timber comes from within the state and throughout the country. In the last decade, 70-85% of trees harvested in the United States come from Western Washington.
Though Washington state now practices sustainable forestry, decades of deforestation led to immense damage to Washington's forests, specifically the old-growth forests that once resided throughout western Washington. Old-growth forests are defined as forests that have existed for at least two centuries, contain large and developed trees, and have had minimal disturbances as a result of human activity. As people began moving west in the late 19th century, logging practices were unregulated. As technology advanced, the devastation of deforestation became more apparent. Now, it is estimated that only 3-8% of old-growth forests remain in Western Washington as a result of old logging practices.
One species deeply impacted by the loss of old-growth forests is the Northern Spotted Owl. The Northern Spotted Owl only resides in old-growth forests in the Pacific Northwest. In 1988, the Northern Spotted Owl was identified as endangered. Through conservation efforts, the Northern Spotted Owl has grown in numbers and is now categorized as Near Threatened. Though Northern Spotted Owl population numbers have greatly increased, the significant loss of old-growth creates difficulties in restoring populations to what they once were.
Evergreen trees like those that are harvested for timber have complex root systems. These root systems prevent soil erosion. Due to Western Washington's long rainy season, the need for evergreen trees to secure the soil to prevent landslides and floods becomes more important. In 2014, a massive landslide in Oso, Washington led to the deaths of 43 residents while also destroying dozens of homes. This landslide was a result of local logging and a particularly heavy rain.
Since 1992, Washington has made sustainable forestry a priority, making the state one of the most sustainable forest harvesters across the globe, with 87% of all logging that is performed being done using sustainable methods. The use of sustainable forestry methods has allowed Washington to support the timber industry while also maintaining forests to keep them healthy and prevent overexploitation.