This paper investigates how management treatments can mitigate threats to old ponderosa pine trees in the USA. The authors explore the impacts of fire, competition, drought, and bark beetles on these mature trees, questioning whether interventions like thinning and prescribed burning can lessen negative effects and enhance resilience. By synthesizing existing knowledge and presenting findings from their own research, particularly at the Gus Pearson Natural Area in Arizona, the paper aims to provide recommendations for forest management practices that will help sustain old-growth ponderosa pine ecosystems.
