During the past 50 years, Puget Sound lost at least two-thirds of its remaining old growth forest, more than 90 percent of its native prairies, and 80 percent of its marshes. The need for homes, businesses, roads, and agriculture must be balanced with protection of the important functions provided by forested and riparian areas. This Vital Sign tells us about the gains (through restoration), maintenance (through protection) and losses of habitat (through development), and also how well we are directing our region’s ongoing growth to protect our best remaining natural areas and working forests.