Environmental restoration, especially reforestation, is critical to revitalizing degraded ecosystems. However, the recovery of soil health and the complex ecological interactions within the soil may lag behind the visible restoration of vegetation. This project aims to estimate the time required to fully restore these vital ecological interactions, including the complex relationships between soil organisms, soil properties, and the ecosystem’s ability to sequester atmospheric CO2. To accomplish this, we are studying three reforestation sites at different stages of recovery, along with a comparable undisturbed site as a reference. This study will provide valuable data to support the development of incentive programs, guide the establishment of new protected areas, and inform the design of payments for ecosystem services projects. This knowledge will ultimately contribute to more effective restoration efforts and ensure restored ecosystems’ long-term health and functionality.