17

ENGELMANN SPRUCE (Picea engelmanni)
BLUE SPRUCE (Picea pungens)
Other names: spruce, silver spruce, white spruce; may have been confused with hemlock.

FAIR-TO GOOD

Engelmann spruce occurs fro~ eastern Oregon and Washington eastward through Idaho and Montana and Rocky Mountain region. Blue spruce is confined to the Central Rocky Mountain area. Though two distinct species they are very similar in durability as a bearing tree. The wood is soft and decays quite ~rapidly. They are usually found with the blazes decayed, only partially healed and little trace of scribe marks. These trees favor moist stream bank areas, are long lived (300 or more years) and grow slowly. They are subject to windthrow and the wood rots quickly once on the ground. Though resinous they do not produce a good pitch face to protect against decay of the blaze. Few are ever found with the blaze completely healed and protected. 

Though not a "first choice" these spruces are better than aspen and birch with which they are usually found. Select young, healthy trees, 6" or larger. Use a narrow blaze, well drained and paint thoroughly. Release if necessary but these trees do tolerate considerable shade.