Degradation and Loss of Wood Fibre in Spruce Budworm-Killed Timber, and Effects on Utilization

Far more investigations of the deterioration and utilization of the stems of trees killed following spruce budworm (Choristoneura fumiferana [Clem.]) defoliation have been, or are being, carried out during the current budworm outbreak in eastern and central North America than in all previous outbreaks combined. Unfortunately the results are dispersed in a wide variety of publications, some of which are relatively obscure and difficult to find. This report is an attempt to assist the forest manager faced with salvage decisions, by reviewing and summarizing current knowledge and by identifying some of the potentially useful literature. Key words: Spruce budworm, balsam fir, stem deterioration, sap rot, dead trees, salvage, utilization, pulp quality.