Canadian Forest Service Publications
Effects of climate change on the impacts of spruce budworm infestations. 2012. Candau, J.N. Natural Resources Canada. Canadian Forest Service. Great Lakes Forestry Centre. Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario. Frontline Express 61. 2p.
Year: 2012
Issued by: Great Lakes Forestry Centre
Catalog ID: 34090
Language: English
Series: Frontline Express (GLFC - Sault Ste. Marie)
Availability: PDF (download)
Abstract
In Canadian forests, outbreaks of insects and diseases cause significant losses to the quantity and quality of available wood. These losses are estimated to be 80-110 million m3 of timber per year, which is more than half the annual rate harvested of 160-180 million m3 per year. Large outbreaks that result in significant tree mortality also increase the risk of fire and susceptibility of the forest to other insects and diseases. Changes in forest composition can also affect wildlife populations by altering habitat and food sources. The changing climate – average temperatures in North America are predicted to increase by 5-10º C by the end of the century – will accentuate the impacts of pest infestations even more. This warming trend will lead to changes in the geographic distribution of tree species and alter the frequency and intensity of pest outbreaks. Although the degree of change is unclear, the resulting impacts will affect forest management planning, wood supply projections and pest protection programs.
