New book highlights ecology of Northwestern larch tree
Stephen F. Arno, author of "Golden Trees of the Mountain West," writes that Seeley Lake in Montana claims the national record-size larch trees. This western larch, known as "Gus," is the world's largest known larch and is about 1,000 years old and 163 feet tall, with another 10 feet of dead top. There is a small parking area and interpretive trail leading to the giant in the easily accessible Girard Grove.
Stephen F. Arno of Missoula has self-published through Amazon a book on the ecology and history of the Northwestern larch titled “Golden Trees of the Mountain West.”
According to the book’s cover, “Each fall the Northwestern larch put on a dazzling show, turning golden yellow hues as they prepare for winter. Larch are a beautiful and important feature of Northwestern forests, but surprisingly very little is known about them.”
Arno’s book explores the ecology of these fascinating trees, as well as their history with humans and role in the natural world.
In “Golden Trees of the Mountain West,” Arno identifies the unique qualities and characteristics of both the western larch and the alpine larch, their specific habitats and how humans and animals have interacted with larch throughout history. The final chapter discusses the future of larch management.
Packed with over 50 color photographs, “Golden Trees of the Mountain West” also contains a visitor’s guide for seeing larch in the Northwest and Bitterroot Valley. It is available through Amazon.
About the author
Stephen F. Arno devoted his 28-year career to forestry ecology research with the U.S. Forest Service. He holds a Ph.D. in forest and plant science from the University of Montana and is considered an expert in forest ecology, fire ecology and the application of prescribed fire and managing fuels.
Prior to his career with the U.S. Forest Service, Arno had worked as a firefighter in Washington, and as a ranger naturalist at Sequoia-Kings and Olympic national parks.
He is now retired and lives in Missoula.
