Direct Control Methods for the Southern Pine Beetle Direct Control Methods for the Southern Pine Beetle by Kenneth M. Swain Sr., and Michael C. Remion Welcome to the Online Format of USDA Agriculture Handbook No. You may also write to the U. S. Government Printing Office. And of course you can always print the online format from your printer. In 1979 alone, it killed enough timber to build 34,500 homes. The trees are killed singly, in small groups, or in large numbers over hundreds of acres.
Outbreaks commonly originate in poorly managed or overstocked stands.
Once underway, an outbreak may last for several years and can spread rapidly into managed stands-including urban areas. SPB-caused timber losses can be reduced through application of one or more recommended control tactics. This handbook describes currently recommended direct control practices. These measures will minimize timber losses during outbreak periods. Treatment Priorities Southern pine beetle spots must be located before they can be treated.