• Keenan, Russell E.
  Envirologic Data, Inc
  
• Maritato, Mark C.
  Envirologic Data, Inc
  

The spruce budworm, Choristoneura fumiferana (Clem. ), a native insect of the spruce-fir forest ecosystem, is the most widespread, persistent, and destructive defoliator of coniferous forests in eastern North America. Found as far west as the MacKenzie River Valley and throughout the eastern range of its primary hosts - balsam fir (Abies balsamea (L.) (Mill), white spruce (Picea glauca (Moench.) Voss.), red spruce (Picea rubens Sarg.), and black spruce (picea mariana (Mill.) B. S.P. ) - the spruce budworm is capable of having a significant socio-economic impact in those regions which rely on spruce-fir forests as a primary resource. Once thought to be resistant to budworm attack, red spruce is actual:y very difficult to protect from defoliation during high levels of budworm infestation. The problem has become serious enough to be recognized as a major research priority by most entomologists and foresters working on budworm topics. The purpose of this report is to review the status of spruce protection programs and to determine what additional research is needed to improve our ability to protect red spruce.