Groups strive to protect Athens’ scenic beauty

By Liz Bracher

Athens and surrounding areas are known for rolling hills and acres of deciduous forests, but an increase in land development poses a threat to its natural beauty.

Ancient Ohio forest faces an uncertain fate

As this fallen tree breaks down, a mound will form at the base of the tree. A pit is left where the roots pulled up chunks of earth. Photo by Joe Brehm

Environmental studies graduate student Joe Brehm embarked on a journey to Dysart Woods, the largest remaining old-growth forest in Ohio. This forest has endured centuries of ecological change and still harbors a diverse array of flora and fauna. Dysart Woods is now in jeopardy of vanishing forever.

Members of ACF work to restore chestnut trees to Ohio forests

Ohio University students and volunteers from the American Chestnut Foundation get started with planting 400 chestnut seedlings. Photo by Daniel Williams

By Audrey Rabalais

Every Christmas the sound of Nat King Cole crooning “Chestnuts roasting on an open fire…” resonates on the radio; however, for many the memory of roasting chestnuts is a distant one.