• Clowater, W.G.
  Department of Natural Resources
  
• Andrews, P.W.
  Department of Natural Resources
  

In 1980, 1,220 permanent sample plots on all ownerships in New Brunswick were assessed to determine the damage caused by the spruce budworm (Choristoneura fumiferana balsamea (L.) Mill). Results indicated that damage to balsam fir was much greater than that of spruce and was highest on the small freehold ownership, especially in southern New Brunswick. It is evident that the spruce budworm protection program has been effective in preventing mortality of balsam fir in the protection zone since damage is approximately one-half that of the set-back zone. Damage to spruce was relatively light when compared to fir and was approximately of the same magnitude in both the protection and set-back zones. The percentage of damage to spruce and balsam fir is practically the same for all three cover types assessed. Acomparison of 1979 and 1980 assessments of damage on small freehold ownership in southern New Brunswick showed an increase in the percentage of dead or moribund spruce and balsam fir.