This tree grows to 70 meters (210 feet) tall in an environment with direct sunlight.  It creates a habitat for insects, small mammals (including Northern flying squirrels and red tree voles), and lichens and mosses.  This tree is also important for supporting thousands of species of microscopic fungi and bacteria that live on and inside the needles. These fungi-bacteria, called Scuzz, are an important food source for mites and aphids. 

The Douglas-fir tree has also played an important role in the history of humans.  The Douglas-fir was used by Native American tribes for making spears, spoons harpoon shafts, salmon wiers, fire tongs, caskets, and fish-hooks.  The tree sap was used as a medicinal salve for wounds and skin irritations.  Currently, Douglas-fir is one of the most sought after trees for timber harvesting.