Pacific Northwest Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Unit (CESU)

Endophytes to Reduce Blister Rust Severity in Whitebark Pine at Crater Lake National Park, OR

Project ID: J8W07090004

Federal Agency: National Park Service

Partner Institution: University of Idaho

Fiscal Year: 2009

Initial Funding: $5,000

Total Funding: $17,500

Project Type: Research

Project Disciplines: Biological

National Park: Crater Lake National Park

Principal Investigator: Newcombe, George

Agreement Technical Representative: Hudson, Laura

Abstract: To determine whether endophytes can increase resistance of whitebark pine to blister rust. This new technology could reduce the impact of white pine blister rust and, potentially, climate change on these high-elevation whitebark pine communities. CRLA NP whitebark pine stock will be used to propogate seedlings that will be replanted in the park. Endophye-inoculated seedlings will be compared directly to control seedlings with respect to survival, growth, endophyte communities, blister rust severity and severity of other diseases & herbivores. Results would have wide-range implications for whitebark pine communities.

Deliverables: