Southern pine beetles prediction trapping 2012 [2012]

Southern Pine Beetle Prediction Trapping 2012
March 19, 2012 through April 25, 2012 Mark Raines, Forest Health Specialist
Southern Pine Beetle Prediction Report 2012 Forest Health and Invasive Plant Consolidated Grant
(11-DG-11083113-001)
Southern Pine Beetle Prediction Trapping
The Georgia Forestry Commission (GFC) participates annually in the Southern Pine Beetle (SPB) prediction trapping program, which enables foresters to anticipate seasonal SPB population levels. This insect has the potential to cause more forest destruction in the southeastern states than all other forest pests combined, so anticipating potential damage is important. Insect traps are deployed in early spring by GFC foresters and are checked weekly for at least four weeks. A model developed by Dr. Ronald Billings (Texas Forest Service) is used to predict population levels. The model is based on the number of Southern Pine Beetles captured and the number of clerid beetles, a SPB predator, caught in the traps. The history of the trapping program over the past 20 years indicates this model is more than 75 percent accurate.
In the most recent Southern Pine Beetle prediction survey, conducted as a cooperative effort between USDA Forest Service, Department of Defense (Fort Stewart), and Georgia Forestry Commission, a total of 37 traps were placed statewide. All prediction traps in Georgia indicate low SPB populations/activity for 2012, (See 2012 Southern Pine Beetle Predictions Map below). Based on trapping data alone, GFC does not expect significant SPB activity in the state this year.
Special thanks to GFC foresters and technicians for assisting with this year's trapping program. Thanks also to the USDA Forest Service and Department of Defense for providing trap data. Additional information on trapping and historical SPB survey data is posted at: www.gatrees.org/forest-management/forest-health/
The GFC will be conducting an annual aerial survey for pine bark beetles in late June or early July. Any activity will be marked, and the landowner will be notified. A summary report will be posted at www.GaTrees.org.
The SPB Hazard Rating Map for Georgia included in this report was developed by the USDA Forest Service based upon variables such as host species, stand density, site and soil characteristics. It gives an overview of risk for SPB attack and damage, and provides a good snapshot of where future problems may occur when stand, site, and weather variables trigger another outbreak.
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