Deforestation is when people cut down large areas of forests. These trees are cut down in a way called clearcutting. Clearcutting is when all of the trees in the area are completely gone. This can be done for new buildings, roads, logging, or farmland. Clearcutting and deforestation in general can be very bad for the planet. Thousands of animals lose their homes as well as their food sources. Deforestation can lead to erosion in clear-cut areas. Erosion is when water, wind, or any other natural material moves sediment and rock. This causes canyons and holes to form! Tree roots usually hold hold the soil in place, but because the trees are cut down, there will be more erosion! In fact, there are some canyons that were formed by erosion due to clearcutting.
