National Audubon Society Specials: Ancient Forests: Rage Over Trees

A Blue Ribbon award winner at the 1990 American Film & Video Festival, Paul Newman hosts this incisive look at the debate between conservationists and the timber companies in the Pacific Northwest. The main story takes place at the Opal Creek watershed in Oregon, where stands of Douglas fir some 800 years old are being covetously eyed by the timber industry. The timber companies argue that some 200 million acres have been set aside for protection, so why do the conservationists keep asking for more? The conservationists, on the other hand, aided by the commentary from environmental experts, argue that the ancient forest is irreplaceable, and will threaten the existence of some animal species, including the spotted owl. Both sides offer very good arguments, although the program leans on the side of saving the trees. With environmental awareness reaching an all-time high here in the U.S., quality documentaries such as this one, will we watched with interest. Highly recommended. (See AMAZING GRACE: WITH BILL MOYERS for availability.)