Michael Murray, Ph.D., P.Ag., Forest Pathologist, Kootenay-Boundary Region, Ministry of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development, michael.murray@gov.bc.ca 

Michael Murray is a forest pathologist for the BC FLNRORD in Nelson, BC. Michael served as a Fire Resource Advisor for six years while in the National Park Service.  He is a member of both the USA and Canadian Boards of Directors for the Whitebark Pine Ecosystem Foundation. He received his Ph.D. in whitebark pine fire ecology-forest health from the University of Idaho and a M.S degree in natural resources from Humboldt State University in Arcata, California. Michael's interests include climate driven tree declines, white pine blister rust resistance screening, long-term forest health monitoring, and ameliorating forest root diseases. 

ABSTRACT

Best Fire Management Practices for Whitebark Pine in the Crown of the Continent.

Whitebark pine (Pinus albicaulis) is a widespread and ecologically important high-elevation tree in western North America.  Due to changing fire and insect regimes, introduced disease, and climate change the species is federally listed as endangered. This pine experiences complex fire regimes which appear to be increasing in severity.  As hot droughts become commonplace in the Crown, fire-induced mortality is a mounting concern.  Management objectives should emphasize limiting mortality to healthy trees, reducing ladder fuels and competition from other tree species, and increasing post-fire regeneration.