Mountain Pine Beetle

Although only about the size of a mouse turd, Dendroctonus ponderosae, also known as the Mountain Pine Beetle, has been responsible for what is being called the largest insect blight ever recorded in North America. Millions and millions of trees have been killed through infestation, which has led to massive forest ecosystem changes. Dr. Diana Six from the University of Montana's Franke College of Forestry and Conservation joins the podcast to share her world renowned expertise about this fascinating creature.   This podcast was made possible in part through support from the U. S. Forest Service and the University of Montana. The University of Montana is an equal opportunity provider.