So what makes a forest ecosystem dynamic and sustainable? Discover the answers by watching the four parts of this science show and reading the information below. And to take this learning adventure into your classroom, have your teacher download the free Lesson Activity at the bottom of this page so everyone can share in the fun of this inquiry based learning.

Well, it’s because a forest is constantly changing.  Various processes take place in the forest that are crucial to life… such as getting clean air to breathe or clean water to drink. It starts when trees and other plants absorb carbon dioxide from the air and then convert it into roots, shoots, wood, leaves, flowers, and fruits through the process of photosynthesis.  Photosynthesis is where plants use light energy, carbon dioxide, and water to make sugars and release oxygen, which is great for breathing. But as forests grow and regenerate, they also play crucial roles in the water cycle and carbon cycle. The four parts of this Into the Outdoors episode and the Serious Science video on Sustainable Forestry reveal the science behind our dynamic forests.

As bonus educational material for your classroom, below you’ll find the high school activity from Project Learning Tree on Monitoring Forest Health. This activity is the first of nine found in PLT’s Focus on Forests: Forest Ecology guide. Check it out on Focus on Forests from Project Learning Tree.

Share this forestry fun and education with your friends or classroom. Or, check out the “Sustainable Forestry” video on this site and its related classroom Lesson Guide. “Timber”

    Full Video

    Classroom Videos

    A More Sustainable Planet

    RElated Content

    Turning Crude Oil into Fuels

    Have you ever wondered where the fuels that power our vehicles comes from? Or, have you thought about how they turn syrupy black crude into the clear gasoline and fuels...

    Into Wetland Conservation

    In this Into the Outdoors episode, we’re taking you to South Dakota to learn about how wetland habitats are being protected on both public and private lands. Join Into...

    Into Family Fishing in Your National Forests

    In this Into the Outdoors episode, witness the wonders you could experience while exploring our public lands as you watch four family fishing adventures taking place in...

    Florida Fishing Fun

    Welcome to Florida Fishing Fun as part of our Getting Families Fishing Series. As you’ll discover in this video, fishing with friends and family offers you pathways to...

    Meet the Meat

    Join our adventure team as they dive into the science and real life farming practices of Wisconsin’s beef industry. From nutrition to cooking, they explore fun and...

    Managing Forests for Multi-Use

    Discover how sustainable forest management benefits wildlife, recreation, and the economy. From protecting ecosystems to producing forest products, learn how forests...

    Into Forestry: Heroes of the Forest

    There are heroes out there. You may not recognize them, hiding in the trees, but they are there. Agents doing their job with skill and strength, wielding the most...

    Coast Guard Case Files Rescue and Boater Safety

    Join us on an action-packed adventure as we dive into real U.S. Coast Guard rescue stories and uncover the best boating safety practices! 🛥️⚓ From dramatic water...

    Into Fishing With A Spincasting Reel

    In this Into the Outdoors episode, we learn about fishing with a spincaster, boater safety, and how to catch a fish like a pro. Watch as Into the Outdoors Adventure...

    Decoding the Science of Boating Safety

    What do physics geniuses, Archimedes and Sir Isaac Newton have to do with keeping you safe while boating? Join our outdoor adventure team as they decode the fun and...

    Thank you, Partners!