Why are the trees red?

When travelling along the south-eastern slopes of the Rocky Mountains, you may notice bands and patches of red trees, commonly known as red belt. Red belt is not caused by mountain pine beetle, other insects or disease. Red belt is the result of rapid winter temperature changes. Warm air dries the trees, which cannot draw water from the frozen ground to replace the lost moisture. The desiccated needles turn a reddish-brown colour, and will eventually fall off. All conifer species of all ages are susceptible.

Will the trees die?

Trees will recover from the defoliation, but may experience a reduction in growth rate, and may be more susceptible to insect attack or other disease. Unopened buds are usually not harmed. Tree mortality may result from repeated red belt damage or destruction of all buds.

Help protect this forest

Large areas of red belt increase the fire hazard. Please ensure your campfire is fully extinguished before leaving it. Soak it, stir it, and soak it again. To report a wildfire, call 310-FIRE.