We found this majestic tree near Lac Sainte Marie, Quebec. The Eastern White Pine (Pinus strobus) is a conifer that embodies the ecological uniqueness of the region. Thriving in the rocky terrain and surrounded by thousands of clear, cold lakes, this tree is among the largest remaining in western Quebec. Most of its larger cousins fell to early European loggers. The tall, straight trees were prized for shipbuilding and contributed to the economic growth of Canada.

The Eastern White Pine is also a crucial habitat for wildlife. Their sheltering canopies are nesting sites for numerous bird species including Bald Eagles and the melodic Hermit Thrush. Its presence influences the region's entire ecosystem. A day before we arrived, this tree survived a tornado that dropped down about one-hundred metres away tearing up dozens of Birch and Firs.