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Limber Pines of the Cathedral Spires: A Unique Tree

Updated July 29, 2025
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John Ball

Professor, SDSU Extension Forestry Specialist & South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources Forest Health Specialist

Written collaboratively by John Ball, Julie Leidholt, Amanda Morrison and Brandon Prehn.

The conservation of the Cathedral Spires limber pines is critical for maintaining the genetic diversity of the limber pine species and the ecological diversity of the Black Hills ecoregion. This bulletin covers the history of this unique species; its status and threats are also discussed.

Acknowledgement

We appreciate the financial support for this project by Neiman Enterprises, Inc, Hulett, WY.