Tree Beetle
Frequently Asked
Questions

Sundance Canyon, Utah

    • Douglas Fir Beetle infests Douglas Fir trees | Treatable

    • Engraver IPS Beetle infests pines, Colorado Blue Spruce & Engleman Spruce | No effective treatment

    • Pine IPS Beetle infests only pine | No effective treatment

    • Fir Engraver Beetle infests White Fir during drought | No effective treatment

    • Western Balsam Bark Beetle infests Subalpine Fir particularly during drought | No effective treatment 

  • The method for tree protection depends on what insect infests which tree species. The primary beetle impacting trees of Sundance Canyon that can be treated is the Douglas Fir Beetle. For all other species, removal of dead trees is the only option. 

    Removal of infected trees: 

    • Any infested trees should be cut down - Reddish coloring of the needles or a reddish-orange dust (frass) at the base of the tree or large globs of sap (“pitch streamers”) may indicate beetle presence.

    • Trees that are infested but still alive must be removed from the canyon or burned within 30 days of cutting it down to prevent increase breading of beetles in the downed wood. 

    MCH pheromone packets are the most effective treatments: 

    • MCH packets can be used to protect individual Douglas Fir trees or stands of Douglas Fir. 

    • Using MCH to protect stands of trees or property wide requires proper distribution within the stand. Involving a professional is advised. 

    • MCH packets should be installed by the 2nd week in June. 

    **When using MCH packets, wear neoprene gloves and a mask

  • While there are other options to treat beetles, many are either not effective, limited in effectiveness or have the potential to negatively impact the environment and native animals and insects. 

    • Beetle traps attract more beetles and can lead to infestation of more trees. 

    • Spraying trees is expensive, not effective and can harm the environment (water and soil) and native animals and insects. 

    • Injection is expensive and only minimally effective after over 5 years of consecutive treatment. 

    • Watering is only effective for aiding in establishment of newly planted trees. For established tees it is not an effective strategy and uses water that is already a limited resource. 

  • Trees become susceptible to beetle and other pest infestation when they are stressed. Tree infestation rates in Sundance Canyon are in large part due to increased severity and frequency of drought. Planting more drought tolerant, and preferably native, tree species reduces the likelihood of tree stress levels that result in infestation. Appropriate species include: 

    • Pine: Austrian Pine, Pondarosa Pine and Pinyon Pine 

    • Aspen | Increase survival and long-term health by planting in groups