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January 26, 1998
(Forest Resources and Agrifoods)


Report of 1997/1998 Insect Status and Control Program

The 1997 Forest Insect Status Report and Control Program along with the 1998 Insect Forecast report has been delivered to the department and is presently being studied. "Unfortunately, there has been some damage by the balsam fir sawfly to thinned areas. Approximately 53,000 hectares were defoliated with 30,000 in the moderate and severe category primarily on the west coast but other pockets of damage have been reported," Minister Aylward stated. Hemlock looper infestations are also on the rise in northern Newfoundland as well as east-central and eastern areas of the island.

The 1998 forecast for moderate and severe balsam fir sawfly defoliation indicated that approximately 24,000 hectares would be affected either on a moderate or severe level. The majority of this area includes young balsam fir stands that have been silviculturally treated.

The 1998 forecast for moderate and severe hemlock looper defoliation indicates that over 35,000 hectares will be defoliated, including 31,400 hectares of productive forest.

While hemlock looper spray programs have been considered successful in reducing populations levels and minimizing potential defoliation in treated areas, the problem with the sawfly remains severe. The minister said: "The department must study its options to effectively deal with the sawfly problem. This may include the use of Dylox, a mild chemical spray that has been proven effective in reducing sawfly numbers. Presently, there is no biological spray that can do this."

The department will further study the reports and possible courses of actions before making any final decision on the 1998 Insect Control program.

Contact: David Wells, Communications, (709) 729-6183.

1998 01 26 4:25 p.m.


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