Written by Hannah Fox – 7th Grader Forest Protection Activist 

I was walking in the forest yesterday and saw so many BEAUTIFUL animals. Of course there are many birds and lizards. It made me think of how so many animals are endangered because we are cutting down their homes to use for wood and paper. I was really happy to hear that Dogwood Alliance convinced KFC to buy more recycled paper for their packaging. 

I know my favorite animal in the forest is the otter. I mean, they are so cute and adorable! I really hope that their habitat and the habitats of other animals will be preserved.

The forest has always been my backyard, and it is practically endless!!! I have always enjoyed playing in it with my friends and family. It is one of my favorite things to do. It is definitely worth preserving.

Hannah Fox lives in Brevard, North Carolina.

Amanda Rodriguez

Amanda is a first generation Cuban American. As a child in West Virginia, she saw first-hand the impact of forest destruction. Now, she helps others support Dogwood Alliance’s vital mission and applies her skills to online and web marketing. A poet, essayist, and fiction writer, Amanda is also the filmmaker of Dogwood’s "Stories Happen in Forests" documentary. She holds a Masters degree from Queens University of Charlotte and a BA from Antioch College. Amanda has been with Dogwood Alliance since 2010.