What Can We Learn by Observing the Outbreak?

Observing the effects of natural disturbance at work in a forest is an opportunity to see a forest renewed.

NPS Illustration / M. Perez

Forests are dynamic—they respond to challenge and disturbance, big and small, that go unnoticed to us. Large-scale forest disturbance, like that caused by the current spruce beetle outbreak, can be unnerving from a human perspective. Sometimes changes come with little warning and dramatically alter the landscapes we live in, recreate in, and love. While this may be disheartening to some, changing our perspective and remembering the benefits of disturbance in forested systems may help us to better understand the world around us.

Let’s take a look at a few ways the spruce beetle outbreak can benefit forests:

1. Nature's Balance: When spruce beetles kill trees, it gives another part of the system a chance to thrive. The way different plants and animals interact is complex, and changes in tree cover can lead to growth and health in other parts of the environment.

2. Challenges Facilitate Resilience: A forest able to respond naturally to changing conditions will be better prepared for the next disturbance to come their way. Cycles of disturbance, like insect infestations, disease or wildfires, have been part of forest life for a long time and support forest vigor and healthy regeneration.

3. Recovery Brings Diversity: Mortality caused by beetles generally isn't uniform; it occurs in patches. These varied impacts create safe spaces for surviving plants to grow and help maintain a mix of species.

In a national park, managers work to promote and preserve natural processes where possible. Park managers are not taking any direct action against the spruce beetle itself, but instead are watching, listening, and taking the opportunity to learn about forest dynamics during this time of change. Spruce beetle has its place in Denali, and time will play out its effect.

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