Whitebark pine stands have a vital, symbiotic relationship with the entire environment. Even so, the species is under threat on a variety of fronts. Pathogens in the form of a fungal disease known as white pine blister rust is a main culprit. Pine beetle outbreaks, increased competition from shade-loving trees cause by fire suppression and the ultimate effects of climate change are all leading causes that have pushed the species to the brink; the pines are now classified as an endangered species under the federal Species at Risk Act.
This spring, Whitebark Pine Ecosystem Foundation of Canada will begin cone collection and the extraction of 300,000 seeds from 100 healthy trees begins. In early 2026, these seeds will transform into 150,000 seedlings. The plan then is to plant 50,000 seedlings per year between 2027-2029.
“As an organization, our mission is devoted to the conservation and stewardship of whitebark pine ecosystems through partnerships, science-based active management restoration, research and education,” said project lead Adrian Leslie. “This project highlights our mission and will contribute to the recovery of the species at a local level.”
