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Abstract
Whitebark pine (Pinus albicaulis), a keystone high-elevation species, is currently at risk due to a combination of white pine blister rust (WPBR) (Cronartium ribicola), forest succession, and outbreaks of mountain pine beetle (MPB) (Dendroctonus ponderosae). While recent mortality is often quantified by aerial detection surveys (ADS) or ground surveys, little information is presented to describe what stands look like following MPB outbreaks. This information may help prioritize areas for restoration. In 2008 and 2009, the severity of MPB impacts was measured in 42 whitebark pine stands in Idaho, Montana, and Wyoming. WPBR was recorded on remaining live, mature whitebark pine and whitebark pine regeneration. Probable stand trajectory was determined by comparing abundance and health of remaining whitebark pine with other competing tree species. During the recent outbreak, 30 to 97 percent of whitebark pine basal area tallied within each stand was killed by MPB.
Parent Publication
Keywords
high elevation five-needle pines,
threats,
whitebark,
Pinus albicaulis,
limber,
Pinus flexilis,
southwestern white,
Pinus strobiformis,
foxtail,
Pinus balfouriana,
Great Basin bristlecone,
Pinus longaeva,
Rocky Mountain bristlecone pine,
Pinus aristata
Citation
Kegley, Sandra; Schwandt, John; Gibson, Ken; Perkins, Dana. 2011. Health of whitebark pine forests after mountain pine beetle outbreaks. In: Keane, Robert E.; Tomback, Diana F.; Murray, Michael P.; Smith, Cyndi M., eds. The future of high-elevation, five-needle white pines in Western North America: Proceedings of the High Five Symposium. 28-30 June 2010; Missoula, MT. Proceedings RMRS-P-63. Fort Collins, CO: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Research Station. p. 85-93.
