…Scientists began a study Monday in a part of the forest near Arnold, where evidence of historically arid conditions earlier in the decade can be seen in trees that have been devastated by bark beetles nearby. The goal is to try to save and rejuvenate the forest. Workers pour what amounts to recycled trees – turned into biochar after being roasted without oxygen – onto the soil with hopes it will hold more ground moisture to feed the struggling canopy. It would pay off in the summer months when conditions turn dry. If the ground holds more water, effectively watered trees would be able to better fight off attacks from bugs that thrive when their victims cannot produce enough sap to deter invasions, said Debbie Page-Dumroese, a research soil scientist for the Rocky Mountain Research Station of the United States Forest Service.