LARAMIE, Wyo. (AP) — A research project underway in the Medicine Bow National Forest in southern Wyoming might help slow the spread of white pine blister rust, which has been killing trees across the West.

As part of the research, more than 700 limber pine and bristlecone pine seedlings were planted in August. Some of the trees were selected because they have resistance to the disease, while others are thought to be susceptible.

They'll all be exposed to white pine blister rust in hopes that the resistant ones will prove their immunity outside a laboratory setting, paving the way for growing more.

Laramie Ranger District forester Sara Alberts tells the Associated Press that researchers hope to have some idea whether the trial is successful within a couple years.

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