The harmful effects of deforestation can reduce biodiversity and the ecological services provided by forests on a global scale. Characteristics of deforestation include acceleration of flooding in surrounding areas, regional climate change from extensive clearing of forested areas, decreased soil fertility from erosion, and premature extinction of species. Discuss the prevalence of deforestation and its consequences in the US. Using course materials and web resources, discuss ways in which deforestation is being addressed and offer your opinion of ways efforts may be improved.