Programming supports a comprehensive network of cooperative study units to facilitate cooperative research, technical assistance, education, and training to inform sciencebased management of the…

The National Park Service awarded a $184,597.34 Cooperative Agreement to Montana State University on May 1, 2025 under the Cooperative Research and Training Programs - Resources of the National Park System (CFDA 15.945) federal grant program. The award supports a comprehensive network of cooperative study units to facilitate cooperative research, technical assistance, education, and training to inform science-based management of the National Park System. Specifically, this project provides study of a long-term dataset on whitebark pine survival and tests a new model to identify present and future planting sites for whitebark pine, taking into account factors such as blister rust, bark beetles, fire, and changing climate conditions. The goal is to develop an interactive map that park managers can use to maximize the chances for whitebark pine seedling survival based on appropriate site selection. Beneficiaries include state/local governments, tribal governments, nonprofits, and the general public.

Programming supports a comprehensive network of cooperative study units to facilitate cooperative research, technical assistance, education, and training to inform sciencebased management of the national park system. The study units facilitate multidisciplinary science and integrated information products across multiple geographic regions of the national park system. This project provides study of a longterm dataset on whitebark pine survival. The recipient will test a new model currently being developed that shows present and future planting sites for whitebark pine. This project will take into account blister rust, bark beetles, fire, and changing climate conditions. The result of the modeling effort is an interactive map managers can use to maximize the chances for whitebark pine seedling survival based on appropriate site selection. Beneficiaries include state and local governments, federally recognized indian tribal governments, public private nonprofit organizations, nonprofit institutions of higher education, and the general public.