<h2 class="wp-block-heading eplus-wrapper"><span style="font-weight: 400;">What's happening?</span></h2>

Firefighters watched in horror as the giant tree burned. The SenatorIt grew in Seminole County Park in Florida., a tree in Florida, was over 3,500 years old and 165 feet tall. But it was no match for the forest fire. 

Ancient trees are a key part of the environment. They store huge amounts of carbonCarbon is the fourth most common element in the universe. Other forms of carbon include graphite and diamond..

But they are under threat from climate change. DroughtsA time when there is not enough water and the ground is very dry. mean they do not have enough water. Forest fires are common. Insects that damage trees used to be killed in cold winters. But now they survive. 

Several years ago, 129 million trees died in California. 

<h2 class="wp-block-heading eplus-wrapper"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Find out more</span></h2>

Now, David Milarch and his son Jared are trying to make sure there will always be giant trees. They are doing this by making copies, or clones, of ancient trees.

They cut small branches from big trees. Then they use the branches to grow new trees. 

"A 2,000-year-old tree knows a thing or two about survival," says David Milarch.

Yes! Ancient trees can help save the planet. If we cannot save the old ones, it is a good idea to make new versions. 

No! We should try harder to save the giant trees that are still living. One way would be to clear the forest around them so they are less at risk from fire. 

The Senator - It grew in Seminole County Park in Florida.

Carbon - Carbon is the fourth most common element in the universe. Other forms of carbon include graphite and diamond.

Droughts - A time when there is not enough water and the ground is very dry.