In Cottage Grove, Oregon, a giant garden sprouting rows of green and brown tree seedlings is part of an ongoing genetic experiment. Researchers at the US Forest Service’s Dorena Genetic Resource Center are methodically searching for whitebark pine (Pinus albicaulis) seedlings showing natural resistance to a major fungal disease, white pine blister rust. Their success could play an important role in conserving this keystone species. Some Western parks with whitebark pine habitat, including Crater Lake National Park, are pitching in to help.
Source: U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service
