The MAB Program United States of America
Biosphere Reserve Information - General Description
Coram
General Description
The Coram Biosphere Reserve
and Experimental Forest is located on the Flathead National Forest near Glacier
National Park, 45 km east of Kalispell (Montana). It is an outdoor laboratory,
established in 1933 to provide basic information needed to manage western larch
(Larix occidentalis) forests. Research results point the way to proper
application of silvicultural practices to achieve ecosystem management goals and
enhance biodiversity of species. Western larch and Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga
menziesii) are the most common of 10 conifer species. Many trees are over 300
years old with a few larch trees over 500 years old. A 1992 Larix symposium
culminated in the establishment of the International Larix Arboretum at Coram
Experimental Forest Headquarters. It includes most of the world's Larix species.
Coram is not inhabited and there are no major economic activities carried out in
order not to interfere with the long-term research objectives of the area, which
has no zonation scheme. There is some harvesting of wild berries, game hunting
and some recreational activities such as hiking and cross-country skiing.
A curriculum was developed to assist science teachers in local schools to use
Coram Experimental Forest as an outdoor classroom. A local high school science
class monitors water quality on a major stream originating in the area.
University silviculture classes annually visit this area to supplement classroom
instruction with examples of 50 years of continuous research.
Last updated: 06/27/2005