Whitebark pine genetic restoration program for the Intermountain West (United States)

Conference Paper

Transfer Guideline: Recommendation

A strategy to restore whitebark pine communities is presented that emphasizes genetic resistance to white pine blister rust (Cronartium ribicola Fisch.) and mountain pine beetle (Dendroctonus ponderosae Hopkins), in combination with an active tree planting program. Early and active intervention may prevent listing of whitebark pine under the Endangered Species Act and further aid in the successful recovery of the grizzly bear (Ursus arctos horribilis ). The restoration program initiated in 2001 includes a multi-State effort (Idaho, Montana, Oregon, Nevada, Wyoming, and Washington) designating permanent leave trees, emphasizing clean trees in high blister rust areas or areas with a high incidence of mountain pine beetle, or areas where both conditions are present. Cone collections from these trees will provide an immediate seed source for fire restoration, reforestation, ex situ genetic conservation, and seedlings to be screened for blister rust resistance. Pollen will be collected for genetic conservation and to advance blister rust resistance in seed and breeding orchards. Data generated from the rust screenings will identify whitebark pine seed sources that provide high levels of blister rust resistance and provide information needed to refine seed transfer guidelines. Leave trees elevated to elite-tree status, as identified by their rustresistant progeny in the rust screenings, will serve as a seed source for operational collections and seed trees for natural regeneration. Survivors from the blister rust screening will be planted in clone banks for genetic conservation purposes, to serve as donors for future seed orchard establishment, and to facilitate selective breeding for blister rust resistance.