Colorado 2023 - Gunnison Spruce Beetle Tree Planting

PROJECT REPORT

COLORADO 2023GUNNISON SPRUCE

BEETLE TREE

PLANTING

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT

Dear friend,

Thanks to your support, a total of 77,320 trees were planted to restore 103 hectares of land in Colorado.

Planting trees in areas that have been degraded or deforested helps the environment by accelerating and assuring the re-establishment of healthy forests. Through reforestation, the canopy is restored, ecosystems are made whole, and biodiversity can thrive.

None of this would be possible without you. On behalf of everyone at One Tree Planted, thank you!

What follows is a report outlining the project you supported in Colorado. I hope you enjoy reading it and truly feel the impact you have made.

OVERVIEW

Since 2010, an estimated 209,000 acres of Engelmann Spruce forest in the Gunnison Ranger District (Gunnison, Colorado) has been significantly impacted by spruce beetle caused tree mortality. In order to mitigate this outbreak, the local forest personnel implemented salvage sales to provide lumber to American marketplaces, reduced fuels, and removed hazard trees in affected areas. The objectiveoftheColorado2023-GunnisonSpruceBeetleTreePlantingprojectwas to reforest areas where spruce beetles decimated forests. In these areas, there is currently little to no existing regeneration or seed sources available for natural forest recovery. By restoring these areas, the new trees will provide critical cover and habitat for wildlife species, including the Canada lynx and other species that have been impacted by severe tree mortality. Further, planting in decimated areas will speed forest recovery, stabilize impacted watersheds, enhance scenic quality, andimproverecreationopportunitiesovertime.

TREE SPECIES PLANTED

This tree planting effort was directed toward revitalizing exposed salvage clearcuts between the elevations of 10,700 to 11,700 feet above sea level. Yet, undertaking tree planting at such altitudes posed challenges. The alpine environment,characterizedbyintensesolarradiationandstrongwinds,threatened the survival of newly planted seedlings. To bolster their chances of thriving in this harsh terrain, innovative strategies were employed. Among these, our partners implemented the use of tree shade cards, strategically positioned to provide shelter during the peak hours of the sun's radiation, particularly in the early afternoon.

Engelmann spruce stood out as a prime candidate for reforesting Gunnison National Forest, especially in the wake of recent tree mortality caused by the spruce bark beetle. The native coniferous species boasts traits that make it ideally suited for this restoration: its adaptability to the Rocky Mountains' climate and soil conditions ensures ecosystem resilience, while its demonstrated resilience to beetle disturbances aids in restoring the forest's natural composition. Additionally, Engelmann spruce complements the existing Douglas fir, White fir, and Ponderosa pine in Gunnison National Forest, filling niche gaps and contributing to overall forest diversity. Further, the extensive root systems of this species contributes to soil stabilization, mitigating erosion and landslides in the rugged terrain of Gunnison National Forest. By utilizing Engelmann spruce for this project, we not only replenish lost habitat but also safeguard the long-term health and vitality of a cherishedpublicland.

Despite the challenge of planting later in the summer growing season, the resilience of the seedlings prevailed. While they had less time to establish and develop foliage before the onset of fall, our partner’s observations during the early October survival surveys revealed a remarkable outcome: despite some frostinduced browning of soft leaf tissue, the seedlings displayed a 100% survival rate just seven weeks after planting. This testament to their vigor underscores our confidenceinthesuccessofthisreforestationinitiative.

SPECIES PLANTED THROUGH THIS PROJECT

Engelmann spruce (Picea engelmannii Parry ex Engelm)

TREE SPECIES IDENTIFICATION & USE

Engelmann spruce, scientifically known as Picea engelmannii Parry ex Engelm, stands as an iconic symbol of the Rocky Mountains, easily recognized by its towering silhouette and distinctive bluish-green foliage, which dominates the landscapes of Colorado. This coniferous species, distinguished by its slender, sharp needles arranged spirally around branches, typically reaches heights of 130200 feet, creating dense, cathedral-like forests that detail the terrain. Its cones, pendulousandcylindricalinshape,bearseedsthatserveasavitalfoodsourcefor numerous wildlife species, from birds to small mammals, contributing to the web of life within these ecosystems. As the tree ages, its bark matures into a deeply furrowed, scaly texture, adding to its rugged and enduring presence in the wilderness.

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, Engelmann spruce plays a crucial ecological role in fragile ecosystems of the Rocky Mountains. Its extensive root system helps stabilize soil and regulate water flow, particularly significant in Colorado's arid landscapes where water conservation is paramount. These forests act as natural sponges, capturing and slowly releasing moisture, thereby mitigating the impacts of droughts and reducing the risk of soil erosion and landslides. Additionally, this species contributes to carbon sequestration, absorbing and storing atmospheric carbondioxideinitsbiomassandaidinginclimatechangemitigation.

In an ecosystem, Engelmann spruce trees provide crucial support to a variety of wildlife. Birds such as Clark's Nutcrackers and Pine Siskins rely on the tree for nesting and food, while small mammals like squirrels and chipmunks find shelter and forage for food among the trees. Larger mammals, such as elk and mule deer, use the forests for cover and browse, and black bears forage for berries and insects in the summer. Although not directly dependent, amphibians and reptiles also inhabit the diverse microhabitats within these forests. Protecting Engelmann spruce habitats is essential for maintaining the rich and interconnected wildlife communitiesofColorado.

YOUR IMPACT ON THE MAP

The Colorado 2023 - Gunnison Spruce Beetle Tree Planting project supported the planting of 77,320 Engelmann spruce trees across 254 acres of Gunnison National Forest in southwestern Colorado. The trees were planted to restore forestland lost to a spruce beetle outbreak. Aiming to address the ecological challenges posed by the outbreak and promote the long-term health and sustainability of the forest ecosystem, this reforestation effort will allow for that and much more — including enhanced recreational opportunities, an improved hydrologicalcycle,andrestoredhabitatforavarietyofspecies.

DOCUMENTING YOUR IMPACT

Throughauthenticandinformativestorytelling,wehelpdonorsrelatetothepeople who plant their trees and to the impact they're making for the planet. We share photos, videos, and updates from our global projects across our social media, website, and other media to create a personal connection to the incredible work happeningontheground.

BIODIVERSITY BENEFITS

The biodiversity benefits that result from reforestation, particularly concerning animals, emphasize the pivotal role that planting in decimated areas plays in restoringecosystemsandsupportingwildlifepopulations.

Specialized Habitat: Engelmann spruce forests provide specialized habitat for a variety of wildlife species adapted to montane and subalpine environments. By planting Engelmann spruce in decimated areas, we are recreating essential habitat conditions for species that rely on this specific forest type for food, shelter,andreproduction.

Species Recovery and Diversity: These reforestation efforts contribute to the recovery and conservation of various species, including the iconic Canada lynx (Lynx canadensis). By restoring their natural habitat, reforestation creates favorable conditions for these species to thrive, promoting population growth and genetic diversity. Moreover, the presence of diverse vegetation types withinrestoredforestssupportsawiderangeofspecies,fromsmallmammals tobirdsandinsects,therebyenhancingoverallbiodiversity.

Ecosystem Functionality: Engelmann spruce forests play a crucial role in maintaining ecosystem functionality, including soil stabilization, water regulation, and nutrient cycling. By restoring these forests, we are not only providing habitat for wildlife but also supporting the ecological processes that sustaindiverseplantandanimalcommunities.

Long-Term Sustainability: Engelmann spruce is a long-lived species that can persistforcenturiesunderfavorableconditions.ByplantingEngelmannspruce in decimated areas, we are investing in the long-term sustainability of the ecosystem, ensuring that future generations of wildlife will have access to essentialhabitatandresources.

In summary, the planting of Engelmann spruce in decimated areas not only accelerates forest recovery and stabilizes watersheds, but also provides critical habitatandresourcesforadiverserangeofspecies.Bysupportingtherecoveryof ecosystems and promoting biodiversity, reforestation plays a crucial role in conservation efforts and ensures the long-term health and resilience of our natural world.

COMMUNITY BENEFITS

In Gunnison National Forest, the expansive network of over 3,000 miles of trails offers not only breathtaking scenic experiences, but also serves as a vital economic and recreational asset for the local community. These trails wind through pristine forests, mountainous landscapes, and streams, drawing travelers fromfarandwidetoexperiencethenaturalbeautyoftheregion.Whetherit'saday hike to a cascading waterfall, a multi-day backpacking adventure through remote wilderness, or a leisurely stroll to enjoy the vibrant foliage, the trails of Gunnison NationalForestprovidemanyopportunitiesforexplorationandenjoyment.

Furthermore, the diverse recreational opportunities available within the forest, including hunting, fishing, camping, and day-use activities, contribute significantly to the local economy and quality of life for residents. Hunters come to pursue elk, deer, and other game species, while anglers cast their lines into pristine mountain streams and lakes in search of trout. Campgrounds nestled among towering spruce and fir trees offer a serene escape for families and outdoor enthusiasts, while day-use areas provide picnicking and relaxation opportunities for visitors of allages.

Restoring and preserving the forest's natural habitats, including the crucial Engelmann Spruce ecosystems, not only enhances the authenticity of these outdoor experiences, but also ensures the long-term sustainability of the recreational economy. By providing essential habitat for wildlife species such as birds, mammals, and fish, this restoration effort contributes to the overall health and resilience of the forest ecosystem. This, in turn, fosters a deeper connection between visitors and the natural world, encouraging them to return year after year to immerse themselves in all that Gunnison National Forest has to offer. In this way, the restoration not only benefits wildlife, but strengthens the bond between people and nature, ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy this spectacularlandscape.

U.N. SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS

THIS PROJECT CONTRIBUTED TO THE FOLLOWING SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS:

WHAT ARE SDGS?

Sustainable development entails seeking out solutions that not only boost the economic outcomes of developing and poorer nations, but also work to limit (or eliminate)ourimpactontheplanet.Treesareonesuchsolution.

From creating jobs and reducing hunger to improving gender equality, cleaning air and water, absorbing carbon, protecting life on land and water, and more, planting treescanaddressall17sustainabledevelopmentgoals.

“This project demonstrates why protecting our National Forests is an interest shared by all. Reforestation following severe tree mortality as a result of a spruce beetle outbreak will yield a wealth of ecological and social benefits for the local communities. Between improved climate mitigation, restored wildlife habitat, increased watershed protection, and recreational opportunities, both the local community and wildlife of Coloradowillgainthroughenhancedwelfareforyearstocome.”

Brittney Burke

Regional Director of Projects North America

Meghan Danny Global Projects Support Specialist