Most Forested States in the US in 2023
Green is the new gold in the modern world, a testament to the abundant wealth of nature. Forests quietly stand as the guardians of our environment, performing the extraordinary duty of sustaining life. Hence, being among trees is not just a walk in the park—it’s a walk through the living heart of our world.
From the towering sequoias of California to the whispering pines of Maine, the United States boasts a diverse array of woodland wonders, acting as crucial sentinels in our battle against climate change. Journey with us as we traverse the nation’s greenest corridors, unraveling the story of America’s most forested areas—their majesty, their vitality, and the invaluable lessons they teach us about resilience and sustainability.
Forests in the US
Guarding the greenery of the United States is a task bequeathed to the U.S. Forest Service. Operating under the Department of Agriculture, their role is a critical one: preserving the vitality, abundance, and variety of our nation’s forests and grasslands for the generations yet to come. This responsibility extends over a remarkable 193 million acres of public terrain while offering guidance to both private landholders and state authorities. They also hold the distinction of being the world’s most extensive forestry research entity, injecting over $13 billion into the economy each year, purely from tourist expenditure.
A 2019 USDA review revealed an intriguing shift. The Forest Service had unlocked vast new swathes of woodland for public use, while timber sales surged, increasing by 75 million board feet over the previous year’s total. Further, the agency championed forest health, mitigating wildfire risks on a striking 4 million acres.
However, the green canopy does not drape equally across all states. Every corner of America basks in the charm of nature and the wild, with forests playing a significant part. Some states, however, wear a thicker green cloak than others. A detailed examination by Stacker, utilizing the Forest Inventory and Analysis Report by USDA, determined the ranking based on forest cover percentage rather than total acreage. The states with the most slender veil of green are North Dakota (1.72%), Nebraska (3.20%), South Dakota (3.93%), Kansas (4.78%), and Iowa (8.43%). Conversely, states nestled in the Southwest and New England regions are predominantly more forested.
20 Most Forested States in the US
The following table showcases the 20 most forested states in the US.
Rank | State | Proportion of Forested Terrain | Size of Forests (Acres) | Trees Per Capita |
20 | Washington | 52.74% | 22,000 | 722 |
19 | Tennessee | 52.83% | 14,000 | 513 |
18 | Louisiana | 53.2% | 14,000 | 753 |
17 | Rhode Island | 54.38% | 366 | 86 |
16 | Connecticut | 55.24% | 1,680 | 118 |
15 | Michigan | 55.62% | 20,000 | 501 |
14 | Arkansas | 56.31% | 18,700 | 1,549 |
13 | Pennsylvania | 58.6% | 16,900 | 330 |
12 | North Carolina | 59.73% | 18,600 | 443 |
11 | Massachusetts | 60.57% | 3,220 | 117 |
10 | New York | 62.88% | 18,900 | 243 |
9 | Virginia | 62.93% | 15,720 | 460 |
8 | Mississippi | 65.07% | 19,800 | 1,663 |
7 | Georgia | 67.28% | 24,800 | 584 |
6 | South Carolina | 68.19% | 13,000 | 631 |
5 | Alabama | 70.57% | 22,800 | 1,163 |
4 | Vermont | 77.81% | 4,500 | 1,803 |
3 | West Virginia | 79.01% | 12,000 | 1,674 |
2 | New Hampshire | 84.32% | 4,800 | 883 |
1 | Maine | 89.46% | 17,700 | 3,292 |
Spanning from the northernmost reaches of the contiguous United States to the vibrant heart of the Southeast, our country’s most forested states offer a lush, verdant tableau teeming with natural wonder. At the helm, Maine envelops almost 90% of its terrain in a green embrace, spanning approximately 17.7 million acres, offering explorers an abundant 158 miles of trails.
Following closely, New Hampshire’s small towns nestle amongst 4.8 million acres of forests, a refuge for wildlife including black bears and moose. With about 79% forest cover, West Virginia beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its national and state parks, crisscrossed by the Appalachian Trail.
Vermont, with its small population and vast landscapes, encapsulates the serene beauty of New England, especially in the fall. The densely forested terrain of Alabama and South Carolina, enriched by multiple national forests and abundant hiking trails, constitutes over 70% and 68% of their total land respectively.
Georgia’s woodlands are a playground for outdoor lovers, while Mississippi houses 19.8 million acres of forested terrain, nestled among state parks and wildlife refuges. With about 63% of its land clad in forests, Virginia boasts 24 state forests managed by numerous forest landowners. Finally, despite New York City’s urban flair, the state of New York cradles 19 million acres of forests within its bounds, with more than 200 state parks providing an escape from the concrete jungle.
Why Cherish the Canopy: The Positive Impact of Forests
🍃 Acts as nature’s air purifier, absorbing harmful pollutants and releasing oxygen.
🐾 Provides a rich habitat for diverse species, acting as a sanctuary for wildlife.
🏞 Offers stunning landscapes for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and bird-watching.
🌧 Acts as a natural sponge, preventing flooding and soil erosion by absorbing rainwater.
⛰ Helps in maintaining the balance of the Earth’s carbon cycle, playing a crucial role in mitigating climate change.
🏡 Provides an abundant resource for timber and non-timber forest products that sustain economies.
🧘♀️ Serves as a serene getaway for individuals seeking solace, relaxation, and a deeper connection with nature.
🔬 Facilitates scientific research and education, providing an open-air laboratory for ecological studies.
💧 Plays a critical role in watershed protection, ensuring clean water supply for surrounding areas.
🌳 Acts as a natural shield against extreme weather events and climate-related disasters.
10 Least Forested States in the US
The following states have the least land covered with forests.
Rank | State | Proportion of Forested Terrain | Size of Forests (Acres) | Trees Per Capita |
10 | Arizona | 25.64% | 4,000 | 137 |
9 | Indiana | 21.06% | 4,500 | 167 |
8 | Wyoming | 18.42% | 10,500 | 4,536 |
7 | Nevada | 15.89% | 10,600 | 860 |
6 | Illinois | 13.64% | 4,400 | 87 |
5 | Iowa | 8.43% | 3,000 | 238 |
4 | Kansas | 4.78% | 5,200 | 446 |
3 | South Dakota | 3.93% | 1,940 | 548 |
2 | Nebraska | 3.2% | 1,570 | 203 |
1 | North Dakota | 1.72% | 797 | 261 |
Strategies to Boost Forests in the Sparse States
👥 Engage local communities in afforestation and reforestation efforts.
📚 Promote education and awareness about the importance of forests and biodiversity.
💼 Create incentives for businesses to invest in sustainable forest management practices.
🌱 Initiate and support tree planting campaigns on public and private lands.
📜 Implement strong policies and legislation for forest conservation and expansion.
🔄 Encourage agricultural practices like agroforestry, which integrates trees into farming systems.
🔬 Invest in research and development for improved tree-planting techniques and resilient tree species.
👩💼 Partner with non-profit organizations, research institutions, and businesses to fund and execute large-scale reforestation projects.
🌍 Integrate forest conservation into broader land-use planning and development strategies.
Most Forested States: Conclusion
As we conclude our verdant voyage through the most forest-rich states in the US, we’re reminded of the immense value these lush landscapes contribute to our world. From serving as nature’s lungs and cleansing our air to hosting a remarkable range of biodiversity, forests embody a vital and irreplaceable part of our planet. They enhance our lives in countless ways, fostering recreational opportunities and economic development and providing us with priceless moments of tranquility.
On the flip side, the states with less tree cover are reminiscent of the urgency of sustainable practices, promoting the growth of these green havens where they are sparse. Forests aren’t just about beautifying landscapes; they are about championing the balance of our environment and our existence.
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FAQs
Which are the most forested states in the US?
The states with the highest forest cover in the US are Maine, New Hampshire, West Virginia, Vermont, and Alabama. These most forested states contain millions of acres of forest land, offering diverse ecosystems and spectacular landscapes.
How is the forest land area measured in different states?
The forest land area in each state is determined by assessing the amount of land covered by trees. This includes national forests, state parks, and privately-owned woodlands. Both pine trees and palm trees, among others, are considered in these assessments.
What role do national forests and national parks play in the overall forest cover of a state?
National parks and national forests significantly contribute to the total land covered with forest of a state. They not only house many acres of forest land but also play a crucial role in preserving diverse tree species, including pine trees and palm trees, and supporting wildlife habitats.
Does the presence of national parks and national forests impact the ranking of the most forested states?
Yes, the existence of national parks and national forests can significantly impact a state's ranking among the most forested states. States with larger national parks and national forests typically have greater forest land area, which contributes to a higher percentage of tree cover.
Can a state with less forest land area have more trees than a state with larger forest acres?
Yes, the number of trees in a state doesn't solely depend on the total forest acres. Some regions may have a higher density of trees, including species like pine trees and palm trees, even with a smaller forest land area. It's the mixture of tree density and forest land area that determines which state has the most trees.
How can states with less forest cover increase their forest land?
States can increase their acres of forest land by investing in sustainable forest management practices. This could involve planting more trees, including species suitable to the area like pine trees or palm trees, protecting existing forest land, and implementing policies that favor forest conservation and expansion.
How do hiking trails in the most forested states allow people to connect with these natural habitats?
Hiking trails in the most forested states provide an immersive way for people to experience these natural habitats. They offer intimate encounters with everything from towering hardwood trees to delicate forest floor flora. Hikers can absorb the essence of the state's land, appreciating the diverse species that call these forests home.
How does forest cover impact the natural habitats of a state's land?
Forest cover plays a vital role in shaping the natural habitats of a state's land. Forests, whether they're home to hardwood trees or filled with pine, provide food, shelter, and breeding grounds for a vast array of wildlife. They also influence the climate and soil health, making them indispensable for maintaining ecological balance.
Are there states with both the Atlantic Ocean and significant forest cover?
States like South Carolina and Georgia have substantial forest cover and also boast Atlantic Ocean coastlines. These states highlight a beautiful balance of forest land and seascapes, contributing to their unique natural beauty.