Proforestation: The Power of Passive Management for Banner Forest

Banner Heritage Forest Park

Banner Forest, our 636-acre gem in Kitsap County, is where we hike, bike, and connect with nature. But how do we keep it thriving for wildlife, climate, and our community? Two approaches—**proforestation** (also called passive management) and selective thinning—offer different paths. Here’s why proforestation, or passive management, is the best choice for Banner Forest.

What is Proforestation?

Proforestation, often known as passive management, means letting Banner Forest’s Douglas firs, cedars, and hemlocks grow tall and old without human interference. By stepping back, we let nature shape the forest, preserving its wild spirit and boosting its ecological power.

Why Passive Management Beats Thinning

1. Fights Climate Change: Passive management lets Banner Forest’s trees mature, storing far more carbon than thinned forests. This makes our forest a climate hero, soaking up CO2 to cool the planet.

2. Saves Wildlife: Proforestation protects owls, woodpeckers, amphibians, and native plants like ferns and salal. Thinning disrupts habitats with equipment and tree removal, unlike passive management’s gentle approach.

3. Keeps It Wild: Hikers and bikers love Banner Forest’s lush, untamed vibe. Passive management preserves that natural magic, while thinning can make the forest feel manicured.

4. Saves Money: Thinning requires chainsaws, crews, and costs. Proforestation, as passive management, is free—nature does the work, leaving funds for trails and community programs.

5. Builds Resilience: In Western Washington’s wet climate, wildfires are rare. Passive management lets Banner Forest adapt naturally to pests and climate shifts, avoiding the soil and understory damage thinning can cause.

Why Not Thinning?

Selective thinning cuts trees to reduce density or fire risk, but in our damp region, it’s less needed. It removes carbon-storing trees, harms wildlife, and requires constant upkeep, unlike the low-effort benefits of proforestation.

Newberry Hill Heritage Park after "selective thinning"

Let Banner Forest Thrive Naturally

Choosing proforestation, or passive management, means letting Banner Forest grow into a towering, carbon-storing, wildlife-friendly masterpiece. It’s a win for our trails, our planet, and our community. Share your thoughts at savebannerforest@gmail.com to keep Banner Forest wild and thriving!