Forest Health

NPS staff are monitoring trees for forest health

NPS

 

Forest health describes the condition and diversity of trees and other vegetation, as well as the status of important forest processes like nutrient cycling. Healthy forests provide suitable habitat for native animals and plants, purify air and water, and help regulate the climate. Forests also provide valuable recreational opportunities and important natural resources for fuel, lumber, and paper.

Monitoring forest health in Rocky Mountain National Park helps resource managers understand the overall condition of the forests, including the prevalence of forest pests and diseases, as well as the impact of air pollution and other stresses.

 

Forest Ecology Every living and non-living thing is connected in these woodlands.	Mountain Pine Beetle These little critters have coexisted with Rocky Mountain pine trees for thousands of years.	Spruce Beetle The spruce beetle may be the next big beetle outbreak in the western U.S.
Parkwide Efforts The park finds creative ways to make use of the pine beetle epidemic.	Wildland Fire Ecology Nearly 60 percent of the park is forested. The vitality of these green areas depends on fire.	Forest Health Resources Agency sources keep you up to date on the latest forest information.

 

Beetle killed trees

NPS

The Mountain Pine Beetle

Why are there so many brown trees? The Mountain Pine Beetle is one of several common, native insects that challenge western pine forests. Drought conditions, mild winters, dwarf mistletoe infestations, dense late seral mature forest stands, and a lack of wildland fires have contributed to the outbreak. The scale of the current beetle epidemic is unprecedented in historic times, with millions of acres of trees being affected throughout the West from Mexico to British Columbia.

 

Watch Out for Falling Trees!

Falling trees are always a hazard when traveling in forested areas.

Follow these guidelines to help avoid the risks associated with falling trees.

• Be aware of your surroundings. Avoid dense patches of dead trees. They can fall without warning.
• Stay out of the forest when there are strong winds that could blow down trees. If you are already in the forest when the wind kicks up, head to a clearing out of reach of any potential falling trees.
• Place tents and park vehicles in areas where they will not be hit if trees fall.
• Do not rely on cell phones for safety as there is no coverage in many parts of the park.