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2012 – 2013 Research Accomplishments

This 2012-2013 research summary features photos and text of some of our most recent and ongoing studies, along with links to more detailed information.

Science You Can Use Bulletin: Return of the King: Western White Pine Conservation in a Changing Climate

Issue 4: March/April 2013
Return of the King: Western White Pine Conservation in a Changing Climate
Issue 4 explores the ways in which new research can inform smart restoration of western white pine, a foundational ecological species that once contributed to the health, resilience, and economic vitality of forests in the Interior Northwest, in today’s era of climate change.

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GSDUpdate: Year in Review: Spotlight on 2012 Research

In GSDUpdate: Year in Review: Spotlight on 2012 Research we look back at selected studies of the Grassland, Shrubland and Desert Ecosystem Science Program (GSD) that depict its strengths and focus areas. Significant results of recent research and science applications by GSD scientists are highlighted. We identify where program research lines up with the strategic priorities of the USDA Forest Service and the Rocky Mountain Research Station. In particular, we spotlight accomplishments in understanding and controlling invasive plant species; assessing changes in ecosystems and landscapes caused by disturbances and stressors such as fire, climate change and their interactions; evaluating methods to monitor and support rare native species and biodiversity; and developing approaches for restoring ecosystems and landscapes to improve their resiliency. More »

Strategic Plan for the Reforestation, Nurseries, and Genetic Resources

The Strategic Plan for the Reforestation, Nurseries, and Genetic Resources (RNGR) (October 2012) is now available. RNGR (“ringer”) serves as a center of reforestation, nursery, and tree improvement expertise within the Forest Service. RNGR's primary goal is to provide current, relevant technical assistance and technology transfer to the growers and users of native plants for conservation, reforestation, and restoration purposes. Although originally focused on commercial tree species, the RNGR Team has facilitated partnerships and leveraged funding to become a leader in native plant propagation and establishment technology transfer. Research Plant Physiologists Kas Dumroese and Jeremy Pinto, of the Moscow Forestry Sciences Lab, are members of the RNGR team and assisted in preparing the updated strategic plan.

Forest Service Plant Materials Policy: A Strategic Framework

The Forest Service Plant Materials Policy: A Strategic Framework (September 2012) provides a strategy for addressing the Plant Materials Policy of the Forest Service. Recognizing the need to maintain native plant communities as part of fully functioning ecosystems, Forest Service Chief Bosworth directed natural resource professionals from the National Forest System, State and Private Forestry, and Research and Development deputy areas to develop Forest Service policy for promoting the use of native plants in revegetation projects on National Forest System lands. This policy is designed to help combat invasive species, mitigate impacts of climate change, and maintain healthy forests.

Recent Publications

Visit Publications for access to all station publications. Printed copies of all station publications can be ordered free of charge.

For externally refereed publications, visit either