[magellan]

It's actually called a woody biomass map, done by NASA. Fascinating seeing how Michigan compares nationally. You can zoom in a bit as well. Enjoy!

Where the Trees Are : Image of the Day

[detwahDJ]

Illustrates the result of creeping development of lower Michigan over the years, and supports my contention that the rustic "north woods" now begins around the Ludington area.

[magellan]

Originally Posted by detwahDJ

Illustrates the result of creeping development of lower Michigan over the years, and supports my contention that the rustic "north woods" now begins around the Ludington area.

A lot of that was during the great "deforestation" of lower Michigan in the late 1800's/early 1900's to fuel the industrial revolution, and put into use as agricultural land. I'd guess it's a lot greener than it was even 50 years ago. Ag is being consolidated. I had an uncle (passed away a few years ago) who owned a huge tract of farmland in the UP and he used to comment about all the farmland down here that seemed to be returning to nature. More and more every time he drove down.

[michigan83]

Originally Posted by magellan

A lot of that was during the great "deforestation" of lower Michigan in the late 1800's/early 1900's to fuel the industrial revolution, and put into use as agricultural land. I'd guess it's a lot greener than it was even 50 years ago. Ag is being consolidated. I had an uncle (passed away a few years ago) who owned a huge tract of farmland in the UP and he used to comment about all the farmland down here that seemed to be returning to nature. More and more every time he drove down.

I agree that things are getting "greener" and filling in with trees in general, with the major exception of the ash tree devastation that has happened as a result of the emerald ash borer. It is especially noticeable in Mid Michigan. There are entire stands of trees that are completely bare and dead now. I am not an environmentalist by any means, but it really pains me to see the damage caused by the ash borer. We are not going to fill in those gaps overnight.

There are also a few farmers in my area who are clearing more land for farming, but that seems to be the exception to the rule. I think the high commodity prices are driving some of them to squeeze more out of the land.

[Snootylooter]

So THAT'S why I love the western U.P. so much?!
All the gorgeous, gorgeous trees! (and hills/mountains, water, etc. etc.)

[Cliffie]

No time like the present to start planting more trees, people. Native ones, please.