On this Earth Day, April 22nd, a historic transformation will take root in Detroit’s Poletown East neighborhood: an ancient forest, reborn. Archangel Ancient Tree Archive (AATA) and Arboretum Detroit are planting an old-growth Giant Sequoia Forest—the first of its kind in an urban environment.
These are no ordinary trees. Their genetic lineage stretches back nearly 3,000 years to some of the largest and most resilient trees on Earth. Towering nearly 300 feet, these Giant Sequoias are direct descendants of the legendary “Stagg” and “Waterfall” trees, two of the world’s most massive living organisms. With trunks as wide as city streets and lifespans measured in millennia, they will transform one of America’s most deforested cities into a global model for climate resilience and urban rewilding.
“By embarking on this groundbreaking endeavor, we aim to redefine what is possible in urban forestry and environmental stewardship. By planting an old-growth Giant Sequoia Forest in the heart of Detroit, we are not just sowing seeds but nurturing a legacy of resilience and hope. These ancient giants, with their unparalleled capacity for carbon sequestration, serve as a living testament to nature’s ability to heal and thrive,” David Milarch, co-founder of AATA, told WAN.
“Our vision reaches far beyond mere reforestation; it’s about equipping a community with the skills and knowledge to lead in combating climate challenges. In doing so, we transform Detroit from a city known for its struggles, into a beacon of innovation and ecological renewal,” continued Milarch. “This initiative embodies our commitment to bridging the gap between urban life and the profound power of nature, setting a new precedent for cities worldwide to follow.”
Beyond planting trees, AATA and Arboretum Detroit are launching the city’s first-ever “Tree School,” a hands-on learning initiative where students and community members will become the next generation of tree guardians. Participants will learn advanced propagation techniques, urban forestry skills, and the science behind climate-resilient ecosystems—empowering Detroit to take the lead in next-level reforestation.
Detroit’s children suffer from some of the highest asthma rates in the country—nearly 15% are diagnosed, while many more struggle with undiagnosed symptoms caused by pollution and lack of tree coverage. Studies show that urban forests significantly reduce air pollution, lower temperatures, and improve public health. By planting these extraordinary trees, the project is directly addressing climate challenges while creating a greener, healthier future for Detroit’s next generations.
These trees are unlike any others. Their ancient genetics have allowed them to survive fires, droughts, and climate shifts for thousands of years, offering invaluable insights into climate resilience. Unlike typical reforestation efforts that focus on fast-growing species with short lifespans, this forest is designed to endure for centuries, even millennia. A single Giant Sequoia can store up to 1,400 tons of carbon over its lifetime—more than an entire acre of standard trees. To put that into perspective, a mature Giant Sequoia can weigh over 6,000 tons, the equivalent of 40 blue whales.
This isn’t just about planting trees and walking away. It’s about building a movement. By combining cutting-edge science, community engagement, and the wisdom of the world’s oldest trees, Detroit’s new Sequoia forest will stand as a living testament to resilience, innovation, and the power of nature to heal our cities.
