Forest Health
Ruby Ranch lots are generally comprised of lodgepole pines, firs of various kinds, spruces, and aspens. Each has different problems that must be dealt with differently. Colorado’s climate has been experiencing change. In the high country this is visible in warmer temperatures and reduced snow pack. These conditions create challenges for the development of healthy forest.
Over the years, the Ruby Ranch Fire Committee has consulted, for example, the arborists at CERES (a Breckenridge forest services firm), the Summit County resident Colorado Forest Ranger, various local loggers, and experts at Colorado State University. Here is a summary of their advice, by species:
Lodgepoles: The primary problem was the Pine Beetle, which killed virtually all mature lodge pole pines in Summit County between the years of 2006 and 2016. There were effective pesticides to slow/stop the beetle at a cost of about $10/tree/year. CSU says it is pointless to continue spraying since the beetle has moved on, having killed almost all the unsprayed trees (the vast majority.)
Dwarf mistletoe threatens to kill any lodge poles the beetle missed and there is no herbicide known to stop dwarf mistletoe, which kills the host tree slowly over time.
Firs: Are currently afflicted by a persistent drought which weakens the tree making it more susceptible to pests like the Western Balsam Bark Beetle. Pheromones applied annually have shown promise as an experimental treatment, but more research is needed.
Spruces: Are attacked by spruce beetles for which there is an effective pesticide which must be sprayed to coat the trunk of the tree to its top, again at a cost of about $10/tree.
Aspens: Are subject to an aspen blight (fungus) for which there is no known treatment.
One of the best defenses again insect, disease and fire is a healthy diversified forest. Ruby Ranch property owners are responsible for the health of forest on their lot. Please refer to the following documents and links to help identify insects and diseases that could threaten the health of our forest:
Common Forest Insects and Diseases Colorado State Forest Service