• Forestry Canada, Alberta Forest Service
  

In the wake of continuing and increasing forest harvesting operations in boreal forests, an increasing proportion of forested land is represented by young, regenerating stands of trees, mainly conifers (pines, spruces). Current harvesting quotas are in part based on assumption of good regeneration of our forests. Given these facts, it is somewhat of an understatement to say that our young, regenerating stands represent a vital link in the philosophy (and goal) of sustainable development of forest resources. Our saplings are our future. There are many factors that impact on young coniferous stands and prevent them from maturing into healthy forests. Briefly, these are improper planting methods, environmental (weather) damage, mammal feeding, competing vegetation, fire, and insect and fungal pests. For many years NoFC has supported a research and survey program on I&D pests of young stands. Some of the major pests studied (and currently being studied) are: Armillaria root rot, western gall rust, pitch moths, root collar weevils, and terminal weevils. Today I will speak about the importance of terminal weevils to forestry concentrating on impact, responses to stand tending, and management options.