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Risk Assessment for the Southern Pine Beetle

Formally Refereed

Abstract

The southern pine beetle (SPB) causes significant damage (tree mortality) to pine forests. Although this tree mortality has characteristic temporal and spatial patterns, the precise location and timing of damage is to some extent unpredictable. Consequently, although forest managers are able to identify stands that are predisposed to SPB damage, they are unable to avoid damage entirely. Instead they must manage this uncertainty using risk assessment tools. This chapter discusses the development and utility of these tools for managing the SPB.

Parent Publication

Keywords

damage, hazard, risk, southern pine beetle

Citation

Birt, Andrew. 2011. Risk Assessment for the Southern Pine Beetle. In: Coulson, R.N.; Klepzig, K.D. 2011. Southern Pine Beetle II. Gen. Tech. Rep. SRS-140. Asheville, NC: U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service, Southern Research Station. 299-316.
https://www.fs.usda.gov/research/treesearch/39083