Whitebark pine is a culturally and ecologically important species to the peoples of the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes (CSKT), located on Montana’s Flathead Indian Reservation. Past management practices, pathogen and insect infestations, and climate change have all contributed to a dramatic decline in the abundance of this important species throughout its range. Understanding the threats and how best to manage this vulnerable yet highly valuable species was the impetus for a workshop developed and hosted by the Salish Kootenai College’s Department of Forestry and the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribe’s Climate Change Oversight Committee.

The workshop included presentations and discussions about the current status of whitebark pine (Pinus albicaulis) on the Flathead Indian Reservation and neighboring lands. Future management options were also discussed. Workshop presenters included tribal members, tribal elders, tribal resource managers, university researchers, and government scientists -

 James Durglo, CSKT Forestry;  Mike Durglo Sr., CSKT Tribal Preservation;  Mike Durglo Jr., CSKT Climate Change Planning;  Tony Harwood, CSKT Fire Planner;  Dennis Lichtenberg, CSKT Natural Resources;  Kari Eneas, CSKT Wildlife Biologist;  Dave McWethy, Assistant Research Professor, Montana State University (MSU);  Cathy Whitlock, Earth Sciences Professor, MSU;  Greg Pederson, Research Scientist, US Geological Survey;  Valerie Walker, Genetics Resources Forester, Lolo National Forest;