By Phyllis Benson
Redwood National Park History
The Redwood National Park is a federal park protecting an old-growth redwood forest ecosystem. Redwood trees are slow-growing evergreen trees that grow to 350 feet tall. The park, located along the Pacific Coast in northwest California, contains old redwoods that may grow to 2,000 years old.
Discovery
Yurok Plankhouse
The redwood trees are resistant to rotting and insect damage. Centuries ago Yuroks and other Indians chose the durable trees to make homes and canoes.
Logging
Historic logging
Commercial redwood logging began in 1851. The trees were harvested for gold rush era houses, bridges and mining structures. Over a million acres of redwood groves were cleared.
Preservation
President Theodore Roosevelt approved a plan in 1904 to protect the ancient redwoods. Public and private groups made recurring efforts to preserve the redwood ecosystem of trees, plants and animals.
Protection
Forest fog
Redwood National Park was finally established October 2, 1968, and expanded in 1978 to protect the last large stand of giant redwoods. The park adjoins three redwood-conserving state parks.
Designation
The Redwood National Park was designated a World Heritage Site and International Biosphere Reserve in 1980. These indicate the park has natural universal value to the world for its plants, animals and related ecosystem.
Resources
About the Author:
Phyllis Benson is a professional writer and creative artist. Her 25-year background includes work as an editor, syndicated reporter and feature writer for publications including "Journal Plus," "McClatchy Newspapers" and "Sacramento Union." Benson earned her Bachelor of Science degree at California Polytechnic University.
Photo Credits:
Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons, GNU Free Documentation License
