British Columbia's Forests White Pine Blister Rust Forest Health Stand Establishment Decision Aid

Abstract

White pine blister rust (Cronartium ribicola) is an introduced disease affecting five-needle pines throughout North America. Like other non-native pests, its impact on the native hosts has been dramatic, decimating species such as western white pine in both number and distribution. Because of its prevalence, white pines have been removed from commercial forestry consideration in most areas. This is unfortunate as western white pine is an excellent substitute for Douglas-fir in areas prone to laminated root disease. It can also command a premium price. To mitigate disease impact and permit management, a good understanding of the biology of C. ribicola is necessary.The Stand Establishment Decision Aid (SEDA) format has been used to extend information on various vegetation and forest health concerns in British Columbia. This decision aid summarizes information that relates current management regimes to the spread and effects of white pine blister rust. The first page provides general information, hazard ratings for the biogeoclimatic zones and subzones of British Columbia, and biological considerations for white pine blister rust. The second page outlines the implications to silviculture and the various techniques used to manage the disease. This page also includes a resource and reference list to provide readers with more detailed information. Reference material that is not available online can be ordered through libraries or the Queen's Printer at: www.qp.gov.bc.ca