About the Restore The Earth Project
Restoring the Earth’s third largest watershed has been at the heart of a transformational journey over the past 20 years… The project has executed some of the largest reforestation efforts in the U.S., and the work to restore 1 million acres continues. Over two decades, the effort has remained dedicated to long-term landscape transformation—not just planting trees, but cultivating a future where nature and human innovation coexist beautifully. This initiative also demonstrates how a blend of public and private funds can max out the value of every dollar invested in reforestation efforts, ensuring both the environment and local communities benefit substantially.
Main Benefits and Impact Figures
Key facts and figures encapsulate the project’s significant impacts:
- 150,000+ acres reforested & 1 Million acres in the pipeline
- 15 Billion gallons of fresh water diverted
- 32 Million mt of carbon sequestered
- Additional environmental, social, economic, & biodiversity benefits generated
These numbers are more than just statistics—they tell a story of sustained progress and measurable positive change for the environment.
Decades of Proven Impact
For two decades, the project has been a pioneer in implementing successful nature-based decarbonization models that not only cut carbon but also bring substantial co-benefits and robust investment returns. Every acre reforested is a win for carbon offsets and benefits that resonate through the ecosystem—ranging from improved soil and water quality to increased wildlife habitat. It’s impressive to see how reforesting land can simultaneously restore critical ecosystems and provide value to those who depend on them. The approach is simple yet dynamic, emphasizing that every planted tree contributes to a larger, healthier picture.
Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships
At its core, the project thrives on strategic partnerships… By working closely with state and federal partners, the initiative identifies and accesses large-scale sites where reforestation can yield the most meaningful impact on landscapes, ecosystems, and surrounding communities. The Regional Conservation Partnership Program, as highlighted by Acting Chief USDA NRCS Terry Cosby, focuses on harnessing the power of collaboration. This united approach ensures that conservation easements are effectively managed, securing permanent management of reforested lands and reinforcing the importance of mutual trust, transparency, and sustainable stewardship.
Transparent Monitoring and Accountability
Integrity, transparency, and accountability stand at the heart of every project and partnership. The initiative maintains high standards by monitoring outcomes, third-party verifying results, and reporting the full value of the projects. Every step of the process is thoroughly documented, ensuring that high-quality carbon offsets are produced along with additional environmental, social, and economic outcomes. Such rigorous oversight not only bolsters public trust but also ensures that the lasting benefits extend to landowners and local communities alike… Because when every stakeholder is accountable, the entire ecosystem thrives.
Focus on Partnerships for Diverse Stakeholders
The project’s success is underpinned by meaningful partnerships that create a ripple effect of positive change. Corporations benefit from stable, highest-integrity carbon offsets, while state and federal agencies gain additional conservation easements and enhanced wildlife habitat management. Landowners are supported with additional revenue streams, balanced soil and water quality improvements, and the assurance of long-term land management. Local communities experience stability through job creation, flood mitigation, educational opportunities, and recreational enhancements. These diverse benefits resonate across various sectors, making the initiative a multi-dimensional win for everyone involved.
Project Impact on Sustainable Development Goals
- SDG 13: Climate Action – By sequestering 32 million metric tons of carbon, the project significantly contributes to mitigating climate change.
- SDG 15: Life on Land – Restoring and expanding forest landscapes enhances biodiversity and sustains vital ecosystems.
- SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation – Diverting 15 billion gallons of fresh water supports essential water conservation efforts.
- SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities – The project fosters resilient local communities through economic and environmental stability.
- SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals – With its comprehensive public-private partnerships, the initiative demonstrates how combined efforts can lead to sustainable progress.
Communities, Future Generations, and a Greener Tomorrow
Local communities and future generations are at the forefront of the project’s vision… Projects are designed to create lasting environmental, social, and economic value that permeates beyond the immediate landscape. By cultivating nature-based solutions, the initiative offers more than just carbon offsets—it delivers improved quality of life, job opportunities, and enhanced ecosystem services. The natural flow between funding, dedicated stewardship, and verified outcomes creates a model of sustainability that is both robust and adaptable to future challenges. As the reforestation efforts continue to expand, renewed landscapes serve as living proof of the power of collective action towards a resilient, greener tomorrow.
