Lynn,

      I had an opportunity yesterday to go to MTSF and while there I checked on your pine. It came through the winter fine. I remeasured it and modeled it for trunk and limb volume using a Macroscope 25/45. I also got a better fix on the mid-slope position to tie down its height more exactly. I'm pleased to report that your tree is a solid 153.0 feet tall and 8.6 feet in girth. Its trunk and limb volume is approximately 360 cubic feet. Your pine has a long way to go to reach its greatest dimensions and hopefully will be around a long time.

       I hope Monica and I will be able to visit the Bear Center this summer. We still have a visit on the schedule.  I recently saw a special on T.V. about a fellow who lives in Alaska's outback and is surrounded by black bears. He has developed special relationships to both the board and sows. I guess he has the Alaska Fish and Game folks worried. No surprises there. Are you acquainted with the gent?

Bob