• Simmons, G. A.
  Department of Entomology - Michigan State University
  
• Elliott, N. C.
  Department of Entomology - Michigan State University
  

We analyzed data on total annual Choristoneura fumiferona (Clemens) catch in light traps from 1961 ti 1976 to 10 trap location in the state of Maine. No defoliation caused by C. fumiferna has occurred at these locations between the 1950s and the general state-wide outbreak in the mid-1970s. Inspection of the total annual catch for each site showed that outbreaks were detectable from 4 to 7 years before defoliation occurred. When the data were clustered, outbreaks were detectable 5 years before defoliation occurred. Early detection methods would prove useful in forest management since 8 to 10 years would bass before three mortality commenced.