Brust talks forests, glaciers at penultimate lecture in science series

Dr. Mathew L. Brust gave a presentation Nov. 19 as part of the Science Abroad series. His topic was “The Ecology of the Northern Rocky Mountains.” Brust and a group traveled to parks in Canada, Montana, and Washington in August 2009.

Brust talked a little about going to see Glacier National Park in Montana, and how it has changed. Glacier National Park had 150 glaciers in the year of 1850, but that number has greatly decreased to only 25 in 2003.

Brust said that for those who need proof of global warming, Glacier National Park should be proof enough.

Brust also talked about other changes in the Rocky Mountains, such as the mountain pine beetle, which has destroyed many trees in the Rocky Mountain region. He said that the female pine beetles create a fungus, which kills off the trees.

He mentioned that there is much debate on why the trees are dying off so quickly, with some people saying it could be global warming and some saying it’s because of tree density.

Brust said he stands beside the idea that trees are too densely compacted, due to fire suppression. This makes it easier for the pine beetles to move from tree to tree and infect them with their fungus.

While in Canada, Brust and his group visited Banff National Park and Yoho National park.

Brust said his group saw wonderful scenery and a variety of interesting plant and animal wildlife.

He also said that they saw waterfalls which were “phenomenal.” He showed several pictures of the scenery and waterfalls.

The final presentation in the Science Abroad series 5 p.m. today in room 144 of the Math and Science building.