Sawtooth National Forest

In 2024, the Sawtooth National Forest advanced its ecological restoration efforts with the Bald Mountain Planting Project. This initiative focused on rehabilitating areas affected by bark beetle infestations and enhancing forest health around the Sun Valley Ski Resort. Building upon previous restoration efforts, the project involved planting 22,500 native tree seedlings, including species such as Douglas-fir and Engelmann spruce, to promote forest regeneration and resilience. 

The Bald Mountain area has faced significant challenges due to bark beetle outbreaks, leading to tree mortality and increased wildfire risk. In response, targeted thinning and removal of dead and diseased trees have been implemented to reduce fuel loads and improve forest health. The 2024 planting project aimed to accelerate the recovery of these treated areas by introducing a diverse mix of native conifers, thereby enhancing biodiversity and ecosystem stability.

In 2022, the Sawtooth National Forest undertook a Whitebark Pine Seedling Planting project, focusing on restoring this keystone species in high-elevation areas. Whitebark pine plays a crucial role in maintaining ecosystem stability and supporting biodiversity. The 2022 project involved planting 3,000 whitebark pine seedlings across specified areas to counteract the species' decline due to factors like white pine blister rust and mountain pine beetle infestations. 

These restoration initiatives are part of a broader strategy to address the impacts of pests, diseases, and climate change on forest ecosystems. By restoring native tree species and improving forest structure, the Sawtooth National Forest aims to enhance resilience against future disturbances, support wildlife habitats, and maintain the ecological integrity of the region.