video by wedazzleyou.com

Nearly 4 million acres of mature white spruce forest on the Kenai Peninsula have been killed by a growing population of spruce bark beetles (Dendroctonus rufipennis) since about 1987. This is a very active event, mediated by climate change, which has spread to about 38 million mature spruce. More beetle larvae can survive, and higher summer temperatures allow the insects to mature faster and complete a two-year life cyle in one year. The trees, which previously lived in balance with the beetles, do not have enough natural defenses against this assault. So 'we' as Alaskan's cut them down and use them for firewood and other things. Brother Bill also builds beautiful wood furniture out of these trees. If you would like to take a look visit: http://woodgoodsofalaska.com