The latest breakdown, illustrated by The World in Maps, shows forested land ranging from less than 5% in some states to nearly 90% in others, casting light on the country’s environmental strengths, vulnerabilities, and responsibilities.

According to data from the U.S. Forest Service, states in the Southeast and Northeast top the charts. Maine leads the country with approximately 89% forest coverage, followed closely by New Hampshire at 79% and West Virginia at 79%. These densely forested states act as vital carbon sinks, absorbing millions of tons of CO₂ every year.

On the opposite end of the spectrum, Great Plains states such as North Dakota (2%), South Dakota (3%), and Nebraska (3%) have the lowest forest coverage in the nation. These areas are dominated by vast grasslands and agricultural regions, which play important ecological roles of their own, but absorb far less carbon than forest-heavy regions.

The Western U.S. presents a mixed picture. California has 33% forest coverage, though the state continues to battle massive wildfire seasons that have reduced forest density and threatened biodiversity.

Oregon (49%) and Washington (53%) remain among the most forested states, but both have experienced increasingly destructive fires driven by extreme heat and prolonged drought. The National Interagency Fire Centre reports that wildfire seasons are lasting longer and burning more acreage than ever before.

These patterns come into sharper focus amid urgent global discussions about climate resilience. Just this year, the United Nations called for accelerated reforestation efforts worldwide in response to rising temperatures and more frequent natural disasters.

The UN Environment Programme warns that deforestation worldwide accounts for nearly 11% of carbon emissions, making forest preservation and restoration an essential part of the climate fight.

In the U.S., forests contribute far more than scenic beauty. They support wildlife habitats, provide clean air, protect watersheds, and fuel rural economies. States with higher forest coverage, such as Georgia (67%) and Alabama (71%), rely heavily on sustainable timber industries. Meanwhile, states with lower coverage are exploring prairie conservation and agricultural sustainability to balance environmental needs.