2012 Mountain Pine Beetle Ecology Program Workshop
Foothills Research Institute
Devin Goodsman presented on research looking at how fertilized and thinned stands of trees may react to a mountain pine beetle infestation. Fertilizing and thinning have been used as management techniques to reduce the impact of MPB. This study involved measuring the carbohydrate reserves of fertilized trees, as well as how MPB respond to them. Early results show a decrease in availability of carbohydrates (which trees can use for defense) after fertilization. The experiment then sought to test how MPB grow and overwinter in trees that were thinned and/or fertilized. Results indicate that more beetles may survive in fertilized trees, particularly in warmer areas.
Devin Goodsman is a PhD candidate in the Centre for Enhanced Forest Management, Department of Renewable Resources, University of Alberta.
