This Is Not a Forest

Pando, Latin for 'I spread,' appears to be a forest but is actually one massive tree. Weighing 13 million pounds, Pando is one of the world’s largest living organisms. It has thrived in Utah's Fishlake National Forest, spreading across 106 acres with 47,000 stems. Find out how human intervention has both threatened its survival and sparked a passionate mission to protect it.

Untold Earth explores the seeming impossibilities behind our planet’s strangest, most unique natural wonders. From fragile, untouched ecosystems to familiar but unexplained occurrences in our own backyard, this series chases insight into natural phenomena through the voices that know them best.

Untold Earth is produced in partnership with Atlas Obscura and Nature.

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[janq]

As that man said (so moving), "It's a reflection of how we treat each other." Thank you to all who defend nature, of which we are a part.

[eklectiktoni]

I appreciate that the Forestry Service officer was so emotionally moved when talking about Pando! We need people like that caring for our environment. My respect to you sir.

[ShynyMagikarp]

One of the best videos you've ever uploaded. That segment in the middle with the man becoming teary eyed was truly moving. Incredible video.

[KatrinaEames]

The phrase "we are part of the hard times" is definitely going to stick with me

[woodturner]

I was there in 1987 and it was amazing. Obviously the folks in this video care for the Pando I hope they can keep there jobs and continue.

[Myself-yfdo]

"You think you're any different from, or your friends, or this tree? If you listen hard enough, you can hear everything breathing together. We're all living together, even if most folks don't act like it. We all have the same roots, and we are all branches of the same tree."-Huu the Foggy Swamp guy.

[LaineyBug]

Oh man, that forest service agent breaking down got me breaking down. 😢 ✊ Long Live the Fighters of Pando!

[chantallemay]

I'm glad PBS Eons sent me this way, it's a great video.

[Seraph.G]

Placing walls around a giant, ancient being because we cannot be trusted not to harm it is pretty striking.

[o.h.w-ok]

I’m so proud to leave my life savings to PBS ❤ they’ve given me so much interesting, insightful points in my life from childhood. I grew up in a violent, chaotic, abusive childhood home but always felt love and care from watching PBS even from age 5 I remember how it felt to have PBS speaking to me. It continues into my adulthood (I’m now 45). You are a shining light for me PBS ❤ thank you 🙏 and yay

[GhostNinja]

7:33 You know that man cares about his job!

[EstebanMataVargas]

I can´t stop returning to see the park ranger getting so emotional and showing us how much he loves this environment. The planet urgently needs more people like him.

[annehersey]

I lived in the mountains of Utah for a decade. When the leaves change on Aspen trees in the autumn, it’s amazing to see how this shows itself. The leaves turn in bunches showing you which bunch is all one tree genetically. It’s beautiful to watch day after day.

[generalhades]

Trees are endlessly fascinating! wonder what other natural wonders are lying hidden around the US

[icebtw]

i hope PBS doesn't get taken away

[Jellyfish]

I hope Pando survives until I'm allowed to go to the states. 4 years, buddy. I'm coming to see you

[kingly.]

I love you, PBS. You kept me educated and informed as a kid and you’re still doing it to this day. Thank you more than I can express.

[kevinslater]

I visited Pando about 3 months ago! Thanks for doing a bit about this great treasure in my home state of Utah.

[b_uppy]

This surprised me. Figured we were visiting a tree plantation. Pretty cool its just one megalopolis of a tree.

[jenniferlevine]

This is an amazing story. I didn't have any idea about this before. Great perspective! Thanks for the wonderful video!