Michael Nichols / National Geographic
Redwoods: California’s Timber Wars
In the coastal region of Northern California, Sequoia sempervirens (Redwoods), the world’s tallest trees, can grow to over 300 feet (90 meters) and 2000 years old – if we let them. They are an integral part of the ecosystem, safeguarding clear waters and providing refuge for countless forest species, as well as the local economy by producing lumber and supporting jobs. However, 95% of these magnificent trees were cut down last century, leaving a mere fraction of the original forest. Aggressive clearcutting practices starting in the 1960s led to the “Timber Wars» with tree hugger vs. tree cutter, a conflict which may have appeared to be left vs. right, but in reality was the Wall Street machine vs. Main Street man, as the trees were cut to line the pockets of a few, leaving the locals to fight over the little amount remaining.
Interactive Map
Just click on the interactive map of the city of Perpignan above to go to the location finder of all the exhibitions, screenings and key addresses for this year's Visa pour l'Image.