This study aimed to comprehends the historical process of degradation of the Parque Estadual da Serra Furada (PAESF), Southern Santa Catarina, before becoming a State Conservation Unit. A Qualitative Research was carried out with former residents of the PAESF and its surroundings. Data were analyzed using the content analysis method. There were reports of vegetation cutting to obtain wood, food or commercial purposes, as well as deforestation for implantation of agriculture and livestock. The use of trees occurred, mostly, to obtain wood, being the “canela” (popular name of Lauraceae) the most cited plant. Forest use and degradation activities were part of a land colonization project, reported as economic opportunity and progress. Currently, the interviewees demonstrated the importance of the creation of PAESF, to ensure the protection of the natural resources of the forest.