Study Shows 4.8M Tons of Carbon Absorbed: Redwood Forest Proves Powerful Climate AllyIn the quiet of the Usal Redwood Forest, a remarkable story is being told—not just in the towering trees or winding creeks, but in the very air we breathe.A newly released, in-depth report from the Redwood Forest Foundation (RFF) reveals that since 2007, the community-managed Usal Redwood Forest has sequestered an estimated 4.8 million metric tons of carbon dioxide (CO₂). That's equivalent to taking over 1 million cars off the road for a year.This groundbreaking data affirms what forest stewards and climate scientists have long known: intentionally managed forests are among Earth's most effective natural climate solutions—and the redwoods, in particular, are leading the way.A First-of-Its-Kind ReportThis is the first time RFF has released such a comprehensive analysis of carbon performance within the Usal Redwood Forest, and the findings are both scientifically significant and deeply hopeful.Using data from on-the-ground forest inventories, remote sensing, and carbon modeling validated through California's Cap-and-Trade Program, the report details how sustainable management practices have dramatically improved forest carbon stocks since RFF acquired the land in 2007.Key findings include:*4.8 million metric tons of CO₂ sequestered over 17 years*Steady year-over-year increases in carbon density, especially in previously degraded stands*High carbon sequestration rates compared to both unmanaged and industrial forestlands*A direct connection between forest restoration activities, like selective thinning, road repair, and invasive species removal, and carbon storage efficiencyThe Usal Forest has become a model of climate-smart forestry and how local communities can lead decisive climate action at the landscape scale.Why Redwoods Are Carbon SuperheroesCoast redwoods (Sequoia sempervirens) are uniquely suited for carbon capture. These ancient trees grow incredibly tall and dense, storing vast amounts of carbon in their trunks and root systems. Even second- and third-growth redwoods, like many of those in Usal, absorb carbon at rapid rates as they regenerate.Redwood forests also:*Retain carbon in long-lived wood products when harvested sustainably*Store carbon in soils and downed woody debris across the forest floor*Regenerate naturally and recover well from disturbance, making them climate-resilientThis study confirms what scientists and Indigenous communities have long recognized: restoring redwood ecosystems is not only an act of conservation—it's an act of climate leadership.Community Forest, Global ImpactUnlike many large forest carbon projects, the Usal Redwood Forest is community-owned and managed, with all proceeds from carbon offsets reinvested into forest health, wildfire prevention, rural workforce development, and public benefit.This model delivers climate impact without compromising ecological integrity or community well-being.The carbon revenue generated through California's Cap-and-Trade Program has helped fund:*Salmon habitat restoration in Indian Creek*Biochar production from sustainable forest waste*Road improvements that reduce erosion and protect water quality*Long-term forest inventories and ecological monitoring*Fire resilience and fuel load reduction across high-risk areasThis carbon isn't just stored—it's leveraged for good.What This Means Going ForwardAs climate change accelerates, the role of forests in drawing down atmospheric CO₂ becomes more urgent. RFF's data-backed success offers a blueprint for what's possible when forestlands are managed for carbon, biodiversity, and people simultaneously.Next steps for RFF include:*Updating forest carbon protocols with the latest science*Sharing methodologies with other landowners and policymakers*Expanding public access to forest climate data and impact reporting*Exploring new funding mechanisms to scale restoration through carbon financeThe study also lays the groundwork for educational programming and climate storytelling at the new Redwood Forest Center in Fort Bragg—bringing this vital data to the public in powerful, engaging ways.Be Part of the Carbon SolutionThis report proves that climate solutions are already working in California's redwood forests.To explore the full report, support forest-based climate action, or learn how your organization can partner in future carbon initiatives, visit RFF.org/climate.Because every ton sequestered is more than a number—it's a step toward a livable future.And thanks to community forestry, that future is already growing.
