What is the FS doing to address the bark beetle infestations on National Forests?
The infestations developed so quickly and are so widespread that there is nothing the Forest Service or anyone can do to stop them. However, assessments of the situation are being conducted on affected National Forests and trends in tree mortality are being monitored. Thinning in and around recreations sites is already taking place, helping insure the enhanced vigor of healthy stands, as well as continued treatment of National Forest lands adjacent to communities. Hundreds of dead and infested trees have been cut in Coconino National Forest campgrounds and other developed sites to minimize the likelihood for beetles to spread to nearby trees, and to minimize hazards to the public. Some developed recreation sites are being evaluated for insecticide application to protect high value trees. The objective of these treatments is to protect the FS investment in these facilities by maintaining aesthetic quality and minimizing the hazard dead trees pose to visitors. If we look at the bark beet
