In 2000, Minnesota reported approximately 2 million acres of defoliation, they will probably double that amount in 2001. The last outbreak of FTC in the area occurred between 1988 and 1992 and corresponded with a regional drought. The combination of drought and defoliation did lead to extensive tree mortality, especially in oaks and paper birch. This outbreak has overlapped with a very wet year and rapid refoliation has been observed in many locations. This beetle has been active at low levels historically in Minnesota but, this outbreak is quite extensive in stands that appear to be relatively healthy.
Surveys are underway to determine the extent of the outbreak.
The largest outbreaks are on the Manti-Lasal, Dixie and Fishlake National Forests. A large outbreak of Mountain pine beetle is ongoing in southern Idaho centered around Sawtooth National Recreation Area. As many of you may or may not know, I have been on the editorial board of the Journal of Forestry for some 10 years now trying to promote more submissions concerning forest health issues. What I would like to encourage is that those interested in our working group consider preparing manuscripts for the Journal of Forestry. It is critical that we get our message out before the readership of the society and society in general.