Evaluation of trapping and tree wrapping as management tools to reduce damage from Sequoia pitch moth at the Big Fork Tree Improvement Area

Sequoia pitch moth, Synanthedon sequoiae (SPM), attacks primarily lodgepole and ponderosa pine trees growing in seed orchards, tree improvement areas, and natural forest settings. SPM incidence and damage is usually higher at genetic test sites than in natural forest settings because trees in genetic tests are often growing off-site, which can stress and predispose them to insect and disease problems. Attacks from SPM can weaken trees, cause branch break-offs and even tree mortality when attacks result in girdling. SPM has a two-year cycle in Montana and Idaho.