Based on the normal trend of beetle activity, the August/September flights had more detected spots than the April/May flights. As the season proceeded from spring to summer, the warmer temperatures influenced the increase in beetle activity. In August/September, the total number of SPB spots was 18 with 445 infested trees, much lower than last year’s August/September results with 222 spots and 4,985 infested trees. Even with four spots later identified as Ips engraver beetle infestation, the Southwest Region had the most detected SPB spots with 14. Because of no apparent infestations observed during reconnaissance flights, the Northwest Region did not officially fly for SPB infestation during this flight period.

SPB infestations continue to remain low based on several factors. The nine-year population cycle of the SPB is assumed to be in the declining phase. Environmental factors such as cooler than normal temperatures and adequate amount of precipitation also have some influence in population levels and beetle activity. Even efforts from landowners such as proper management of pine stands and better knowledge of SPB prevention have contributed to a steady decrease in SPB infestation.

The numbers from the Statewide Table should coincide with the statewide SPB map. The total number of beetle spots and the total number of trees for the Southwest Region include both southern pine beetle and Ips engraver beetle data. The actual number of SPB spots and the number of infested trees reported for the Southwest Region in August/September are respectively, 14 spots, 340 trees. For SPB data only, the totals should be: 8 Beetle Counties, 0 Epidemic Counties, 18 Spots, and 445 trees.

Biology and Prevention | Control | SPB Cost Share Program
Statewide SPB Spots | East Central Region | North Region Spots | Northeast Region Spots
Northwest Region Spots | Southeast Region Spots | Southwest Region Spots