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SUBALPINE FIR (Abies lasiocarpa)
Other names: fir, alpine fir, balsam, balsam fir,
white fir, corkbark fir. 

POOR TO FAIR

The alpine fir is found in the Cascades in Oregon and Washington, north into Alaska and in the Rocky Mountain Region from Idaho and Montana to Arizona. As the name implies, it prefers high elevations up to timberline. It is usually stunted in form but grows to 100 feet-tall at lower elevations and may be confused with white fir or Engelmann spruce. The alpine fir is very slow growing, may reach an age of over 200 years and is not as subject to logging as other species. Of the true firs the alpine fir is the best of the species as a bearing tree. 

The blazes on the original bearing trees are almost never healed over, the scribing is either badly weathered or decayed. The tree is usually located in areas of deep winter snow which may protect it from insects but create other problems. An open scar may either indicate a bearing tree or just a bruise from a rock fall or snow slide injury. Examine the edges closely for the tell tale scribe marks. 

Like the other firs, select the young tree, 6" or larger and as well formed as is available. If possible select trees that allow blazing on the downhill side facing the corner. Keep the blaze as small as possible and the bottom cut on an upstroke of the axe for good drainage. Paint thoroughly.