Norwegian government entities take action against invasive lodgepole pine in Skarvberget and Tallåsen nature reserves

Statskog and Statsforvalteren, Norwegian government entities, are taking steps to protect the Skarvberget and Tallåsen nature reserves in Rendalen from the invasive tree species known as the lodgepole pine. This tree was originally planted on a large scale in Norway by the state itself between the 1960s and 1980s. Invasive species like the lodgepole pine are one of the five major threats to biodiversity, both in Norway and globally.

Around NOK 15 million has been allocated in 2024 for the removal of invasive tree species in Norway. However, the authorities are simultaneously permitting the planting of other invasive tree species such as Sitka spruce and Lutz spruce elsewhere, which contributes to the continued negative impact of these species on Norwegian nature. It is a national objective that there should be no invasive tree species in nature reserves in Norway.

The lodgepole pine, native to the western parts of North America, is now being removed from the Skarvberget and Tallåsen nature reserves in Rendalen, as it poses a threat to the original nature of the area. The problem with some invasive species is that they outcompete native species, taking over and leaving no room for the species that naturally grow there.

The lodgepole pine, or Contorta as it’s known in Latin, shares a history with the more familiar lupine flower. Both were planted by the state, the lupine in the 1980s along ditches and road edges to prevent erosion. The lodgepole pine was planted in the 1960s, 70s, and 80s due to problems with moose grazing.

In 2024, about NOK 15 million is nationally allocated for the removal of invasive tree species in Norway. Sverre Lundemo, a biologist and senior advisor at the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), says invasive species are one of the major threats to biodiversity. He argues for the removal of invasive species in all protected areas, which he calls the “prime cuts” of Norwegian nature. In addition, he believes the sale and planting of the most harmful species should ideally be banned.

The national strategy against invasive species states that there should be no invasive tree species in nature reserves. The removal of the lodgepole pine is part of this strategy. In 2024, there are four nature reserves in Innlandet from which lodgepole pine is being cut down.