Douglas Fir: The Story of the West’s Most Remarkable Tree

"Concluding with an enticing visitors' guide to notable Douglas fir specimens throughout the West, this book offers lively perspectives on a tree that we perhaps take for granted too often." -- Coast Weekend

Westerners familiar with their forests may think they know the Douglas fir--but how well do they? Douglas firs are found in the continental northwest from British Columbia to as far south as Oaxaca, Mexico. They flourish in the Cascades, Rocky Mountains, Sierra, and other mountain ranges, as well as in desert valleys.

Incredibly hardy, this tree adopts various strategies to occupy more kinds of habitats than any other native tree, even becoming an uncontrollable invader in some regions, crowding out ponderosa pines, western larch, aspen groves, and mountain grasslands. Yet the utility of this noble species is immense. Douglas firs yield more high-quality construction lumber than any other tree in the world.

Most intriguing of all, perhaps, is that the story of the Douglas fir has gone untold. Douglas Fir fills this literary gap and presents an engaging profile of the Douglas fir and its relationship to people, commerce, culture, and wilderness.

Stephen F. Arno holds a PhD in forestry and plant science and is retired from a career as a research forester with the US Forest Service. Since 1973, he has authored or co-authored six books about forests and trees, including two Mountaineers Books titles, Northwest Trees and Timberline.

Carl E. Fiedler has a PhD in forestry and ecology and is a retired professor from the University of Montana. Steve and Carl have coauthored two previous books together. They reside in Missoula, Montana.

Review Quotes:
"Concise and readable, this should have broad appeal among tree lovers."--Library Journal

"The many photographs and illustrations enhance the text which would make a great gift for your favorite naturalist under your Christmas fir tree."--Barbara Theroux, The Missoulian

"A remarkable narrative recalling the history and current role of the Douglas-fir as it fits in the ecosystem, its use through the ages, its survival through fires, and how modern conditions will affect the survival of these primeval forests."--Portland Book Review

"It is a relief these days to read a tribute to a species that is not teetering on the brink of extinction. Indeed, according to foresters Arno and Fiedler, who have worked among Douglas-fir for decades, their beloved tree is the ultimate survivor."--Laurence Marschall, Natural History

"A seamless and engaging history.... The narrative includes historical photos and detailed sketches and is followed by a visitor's guide to notable North American Douglas-firs--altogether a trip-inspiring package."--Lauren O'Brien, Shelf Awareness

"[Stephen] Arno and co-author Carl Fiedler's narrative will inspire readers to think more deeply as they cut their winter's firewood from the venerable tree."--Montanan Magazine

"You'll become an expert after finishing this eight-chapter book which includes a visitor's guide to notable Douglas Firs."--Outdoors NW