Individuals need to consider the possible long-term consequences of chemical use. In the Front Range, the last MPB epidemic peaked around 1978 with a tree mortality of approximately 1,500,000. In 1997, tree mortality of about 9,000 from MPB was recorded in an aerial survey conducted of the Front Range. Potential values at risk from major landscape-level disturbances include property values, aesthetics, and recreation opportunities as well as old growth, wildlife habitat, watershed yields, and resilient ecosystems. Based on agency or individual landowner objectives, a variety of alternatives is appropriate, from no action to treatment.
Timing is critical.
Local small-scale successes in MPB suppression can be accomplished if aggressive action is taken early in the epidemic, especially in isolated areas of beetle mortality. There is no proven tactic available to stop landscape-level MPB epidemics. Management of forested lands is limited by personnel availability as well as financial, environmental, political, social, and legal constraints. Site factors of accessibility and slope can also limit forest management activities. Because the local forest products industry is reduced, the ability to utilize forest products resulting from forest management activities is limited.