The Pacific Northwest Region is collaborating with nine Forests to develop a region-wide project to protect whitebark pine trees (Pinus albicaulis) that have a high level of white pine blister rust resistance. The US. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) listed whitebark pine as Threatened under the Endangered Species Act on December 15, 2022 (US Fish and Wildlife Service 2022). A cornerstone of the Region’s restoration strategy involves using naturally occurring resistance to white pine blister rust to reestablish stands. Identifying trees for screening and determining disease resistant or “elite” status is an iterative, multi-year process that requires off-site screening.
This project will be categorically excluded from documentation in an EA or EIS because if fits the following category: 36 CFR 220.6(e)(25) Forest and grassland management activities with a primary purpose of meeting restoration objectives or increasing resilience. Activities to improve ecosystem health, resilience, and other watershed and habitat conditions may not exceed 2,800 acres. This category is applicable because the project improves the health and reduces the dangers posed to elite whitebark pine trees by reducing high fuel loads, competing vegetation, and potential for bark beetle infestations. The project does not propose road construction or reconstruction.
We are requesting your input to assist us with development of this project, or to address any concerns you may have within the project area.
Claire Ellwanger
