Beetle Kill

Beetle Kill

The red areas represent trees that are dying as a result of an infestation by the mountain pine beetle. The beetle is not new to BC, but warmer weather conditions have enabled the beetle population to flourish. According to a 2006 report by Natural Resources Canada, “50 per cent of the mature pine will be dead by 2008 and 80 per cent by 2013.” It is a almost unbelievable that this could happen in such a short period.

Total Area Affected by Mountain Pine Beetle in Western Canada (Natural Resources Canada)

The devastation isn’t limited to BC, much of the forest in the western United States has also been affected. The only thing that might end the outbreak is a winter low of -40°C or a sudden cold snap in early fall or late spring of -25°C . Here’s one vote for a new ice age.

More information about the mountain pine beetle can be found at the BC Government website.