Keystone Stories: The Forest


In the early days of the Commonwealth, nearly 29 million acres of Pennsylvania were covered in forest. By 1895, this number dropped to 9 million acres. While Pennsylvania provided lumber to build a nation, this invaluable natural resource was almost lost.

Thanks to the forest conservation movement that began in the late 1800s, 58% of Pennsylvania is now forest. This is not only a renewable, natural resource, but the forest is also home to countless outdoor activities.

More Episodes

Person wearing yellow helmet riding a small red speedboat on the water.

Pennsylvania Waterways

Season 5 Episode 2 | 27 min

A look at the importance of Pennsylvania’s waterways, from history to recreation.

Aired 10/27/25

 

A State of Service

Season 3 Episode 4 | 27 min

We are constantly bombarded with bad news ranging from the struggling economy to climate change, and it can be easy to feel discouraged. But where there are problems, there are almost always solutions, and Pennsylvanians across the state are finding innovative ways to address the challenges in their communities.

Aired 10/09/23

 

It Came from Pennsylvania

Season 2 Episode 4 | 27 min

Pennsylvania and its citizens have a long history of innovation and creativity. The Slinky, Jeep, cheesesteaks, the Ferris wheel, the polio vaccine, revolving doors and movie theaters are just a few things that came from Pennsylvania.

Aired 01/23/23

 

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