To understand the risk a pest poses to forest values and then determine if it requires a response, is based on a combination of factors, for which some information must be known, predicted or assumed. The more data that can be collected, the more accurate the risk assessment and the more certainty if a response is warranted. It is the role of the Forest Health Section to collect and interpret this information.
Insect and Disease Risk and Response: Finding a Balance
Information about the biology, ecology, population size and distribution, of both the pest and its host species are important. Many of these factors are further complicated through interactions with climate, and human activity. Understanding these interactions allows us to estimate risk more accurately.
Once the level of risk has been established for a pest, we next need to determine if a response is necessary. To do this we must understand the forest values that are at risk and what our tolerance is for that risk. Learn more about some of the forest values considered during this process.
Timber/Fiber
New Brunswick’s forestry-driven economy relies on stable, predictable timber resources. Although there are only a few species of major forest pests in New Brunswick, those species have the potential to cause extensive tree mortality and growth loss. In a country and province where forestry remains the largest industry, these losses can have serious economic implications that can be felt at all levels – federal and provincial governments, communities, individual landowners, and forest companies.
Understanding the risk to timber values requires knowledge about where trees are on the landscape, how they grow, the value of those materials both now and, in the future, and how pests’ impact all of these factors. For more information on how the Department of Natural Resources and Energy Development (DNRED) develops an understanding of these variables, visit the Forest Inventory and Forest Products pages.
A spruce budworm pupa and feeding damage on current year needles.
Habitat
Timber is, of course, not the only forest value at risk during pest outbreaks. New Brunswick’s forests are home to a variety of species of plants and animals that rely on healthy, vibrant, forests for their survival. Some of these habitats have been given special designations such as Protected Natural Areas and Conservation Forests. Loss of tree species and subsequent tree mortality from forest pests can alter forest habitats and expose the forest floor and watercourses to more direct sunlight. Loss of forest cover can also lead to increased runoff, potential soil erosion and siltation of streams and rivers. These changes can make areas less suitable for certain types of fish, wildlife, and plant species. For more information on species at risk, unique habitat types etc. visit the Conservation and Biodiversity section.
A Department of Natural Resources and Energy Development Forest
Health Technician hangs trap to monitor for Emerald Ash Borer.
Cultural
New Brunswick has a long and rich history of connectivity between its people and the forests. From hiking our numerous trails to ATV usage, foraging for foods or traditional medicines, fishing and hunting, the people of New Brunswick value the ability to venture outdoors and enjoy the forest landscapes.
Other
Recreational use and forest aesthetics values can also be negatively impacted by pest damage. Areas damaged by forest pests are at greater risk to fire as direct sunlight to the forest floor accelerates the drying of materials. Dead and dying trees become dangerous for visitors, and in some cases can limit access to recreational activities and business derived from these activities.
