When the snag falls over, the log becomes a haven for insects and many other animals. The downed log slowly decomposes and returns nutrients to the soil. However, old-growth forests are not defined solely by trees. Complex, symbiotic relationships develop over centuries between all of the organisms present in the old-growth ecosystem. When ancient forests are cut, it takes many years to rebuild all of the severed connections.
Ancient forests are a magnificent and complex strand in the web of life.
Where you can visit ancient forests State Route 20 Happy Creek Forest Walk at mile 134.5. For longer hikes, try Thunder Creek and Big Beaver trails. State Route 542 Horseshoe Bend Trail across from Douglas Fir Campground at milepost 36. 1.5 mile hike on a forested ledge above the North Fork Nooksack River. The East Bank Trail follows the east shore of Baker Lake and enters the Noisy Creek drainage at upper end.