The loss of forests in California poses significant risks to the environment and communities. Forests play a critical role in carbon storage, water supply protection, air purification, and wildlife habitat. Without reforestation, iconic landscapes could transform into brush and scrub, increasing the risk of future wildfires. The state is currently replanting at a rate far below what is needed to meet its goals, with only 16% of severely burned forestland since 2020 being replanted. On federal lands, the figure is even lower at 8%. This shortfall could have long-term consequences for California’s climate resilience and biodiversity.