I see two species: subalpine fir and white spruce. They’re the ones most acclimated to growing at this altitude and the little diameter is due to the harsh winters up there.
Thank you, Steve! I traveled this area 7-8 weeks ago and got stunned by all clear cutting that was done in recent years. I assume it is damage from bark beetles. Do you know how forestland is owned in this area? Government land that is leased out to the forest-logging industry?
Yes, the high altitude makes harsh climate conditions, but I also think the lack of thinning in these native old growth stands makes poor diameter growth on trees. I also expect genetically developed plants and more appropriate species will allow these land areas in the future to produce more wood fiber per acre. But for sawmill timber production spacing/thinning will be a requirement in the future.