Ecology and Management of Sitka Spruce

Sitka spruce, the largest of the world's spruces, is animportant component of British Columbia's coastal forests. Itsecology gives it a special place in the sustainable management of theprovince's forests. However, in west coast forestry it is poorlyknown in comparison with its main coniferous companions -- Douglas-fir,western redcedar, and western hemlock. As an important internationalforestry resource, it is crucial that Sitka spruce -- its ecology andthe ecosystems in which it occurs -- be clearly understood by those whoare involved with its management.