Treekeepers: The Race for a Forested Future

Conservation scientist Oakes (Earth system science, Stanford Univ.; In Search of the Canary Tree) covers past successes and current and potential controversies surrounding tree planting as a method to reverse climate change. Her book demonstrates that large tracts of forest and small groups of trees in backyards and parks help with carbon sequestration; these approaches can also improve biodiversity, economic opportunities, water quality, community development, public health, and safety. The vocabulary of forest restoration shapes its measurements and outcomes: the differences between tree cover and forest, for example, and between afforestation and reforestation. Oakes explores forest stewardship through hundreds of interviews, not just with scientists and environmentalists but with representatives from communities, corporations, and governments looking to grow forests as well. From Canadian tree storage facilities and Panamanian seedling nurseries to Hawaiian desalination projects, her book spotlights her conversations with scientists, seed collectors, geographers, climate scientists, policy makers, and farmers. Oakes also discusses the complexity in communicating science around tree planting and counteracting the notion of a quick fix for climate change with a longer, larger view of ecosystem support.