Detecting and Aerially Evaluating Southern Pine Beetle Outbreaks—Operational Guides

Abstract

Abstract When southern pine beetle (SPB) populations reach high levels in the Gulf Coast region, aerial detection crews often report more infestations than ground personnel can promptly handle. Based on information from detection and control records, in combination with knowledge of beetle habits, operational guidelines are presented for setting realistic ground-check priorities during detection flights and for periodically reevaluating uncontrolled infestations from the air.