..Okay, so we're not exactly talking about Ents here. (Tolkien reference? Anyone?) But given that these trees can't speak like you or I can, its truly incredible how much they are able to tell us about the history of their forests and homes, and of life in the centuries that they have witnessed. And as giant sequoias can live for literally thousands of years, they've seen a fair few centuries.
Take a look at this fascinating article on the stories told by tree rings in Sequoia National Park
http://blogs.nationalgeographic.com/blogs/news/chiefeditor/2010/03/sequoias-endured-500-years-fire-and-drought.html

Holywood and Brazilian rosewood are types of timber in high demand, used in applications from furniture and trinkets to perfume and aromatherapy oils. However, these trees are important for reasons beyond their market value: they are essential to the ecosystems in which they thrive, and in recent years, have been shamelessly exploited. It is this last reason that has led to new controls on trade of these trees, to prevent further exploitation, and restore a healthy population of the species.

Read more at http://www.ens-newswire.com/ens/mar2010/2010-03-19-01.html

As the threat of destructive insects rises, from the Asian Longhorn Beetle to the Mountain Pine Beetle, the state of Maine is considering a new law banning the importation of firewood. With 90% wooded land, this is a smart move for Maine. You never know what creepy-crawlies have gotten into the firewood (or any imported wood) until its too late. A few other states have already passed similar laws, and more would be wise to do the same. 

Massachusetts residents are furious with their state foresters after learning that they have allowed clear cutting (an abhorrent practice to even the most casual of environmentalists) in the public forests with which they have been entrusted. 

After a decade of overuse from salt collection and rice cultivation, the mangrove forests of Sierra Leone are rapidly dwindling, placing the fragile local economy and ecosystem in great danger. 

To celebrate Women’s History Month, our Historic Tree Nursery is offering 20% off several of our most relevant trees! These trees have authentic ties to historically and culturally important women like Susan B. Anthony, Clara Barton, and Harriet Beecher Stowe. Just enter the code “Mar10” on checkout. 

http://www.historictrees.org/famouswom.htm 

What can you get for your valentine that is low-cost, requires no wrapping or giftbags, creates no waste (candy wrappers, we’re looking at you), and comes with incredible lifelong benefits like clean air and water, and a home for endangered species? Trees, of course!  Plant trees in honor of your valentine at www.americanforests.org. Whether its a symbol of your love’s lasting strength, or your friends are into saving the earth, its a gift that is suitable for any valentine. And at $1 per tree, you know you’re getting the most bang for your buck.

American Forests has some great options for an eco-valentine. Visit www.americanforests.org for more Valentine’s Day special offers! 

Time's almost up! There are just a few days left to vote in the Project 7 Grand Giveaway. Go to www.project7.com/causes/save to vote for American Forests and help us to plant 15,000 trees to restore damaged ecosystems around the world.