It's no secret that old-growth forests have nearly disappeared from the United States landscape. Excessive commercial logging has left much of our public lands void of ancient trees, affecting wildlife and the climate beyond repair.

In the past year, environmental activist Alex Haraus and cinematographers Aidan Kranz and Elena Jean explored some of the last remaining ancient forests across the U.S. They offer one of our best defenses against the impacts of climate change. But these carbon-storing powerhouses are so much more than that.

As the film crew travels from the rolling hills of West Virginia to the temperate rainforest of Oregon, we learn that the looming threat of cutting will devastate these landscapes. In the U.S., the Forest Service is currently targeting to log hundreds of thousands of acres of mature and old-growth forest. These forests could be lost forever unless we can show widespread support for protecting them. This year, the public has a once-in-a-generation opportunity to forever change the way our government manages federal public lands. Through local advocates and grassroots storytelling, the film makes a case for protecting mature and old-growth forests across the nation and shows how the audience can help.

We invite you to join us for a special screening of the film Crown Jewels created by Alex, Aidan, and Elena on Sunday, September 15th at Common Block Brewing. Seating is limited, so RSVP today!

After the screening, KS Wild will participate in a Q&A to answer your questions and provide specific insight into how this affects our region's public lands. You will have an opportunity to take action after the film to be a part of the current push to update forest management policies across U.S. public lands! Seating for this event is limited, so please RSVP to reserve your spot.

Can't make it to the screening? No problem! The film is available to watch online at home by clicking here. Don't forget to ignite your advocacy and take action after you have watched the film too!