Properties, Uses, and Production of Engelmann Spruce

A beetle epidemic in the northern Rocky Mountain area accelerated the marketing of Engelmann spruce. Utilization studies revealed that its mechanical properties, uses, machining properties, seasoning, and preservative treatment make it a versatile species, suitable for specialty items, construction uses, millwork, ties, mine timbers, and pulp and paper. Data were developed on grade recovery and lumber yield from trees of different ages, site, classes, and degrees of stocking. It is expected that Engelmann spruce lumber will now assume its place with other softwood species such as Idaho white pine, white fir, western larch, and ponderosa pine in the lumber economy of the West. The percentage of grades of Engelmann spruce lumber shipped by an average producer during a three-year period were: D and Better Select–7.0 percent; 1 and 2 common–24.5; 3 common–36.2; 4 common–16.3; 5 common–6.8; shorts–7.8; and other –1.4 Percent. Engelmann spruce lumber production will probably exceed 300 million feet annually between now and 1975, and substantial volumes of insect-killed spruce will be salvaged for pulpwood.

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