Brandt JP, Porter KB, Cooke BJ, Scarr TA (2026) An assessment of risks posed by spruce budworm (Choristoneura fumiferana) in eastern Canada. 92. Natural Resources Canada. https://doi.org/10.4095/st000178

This report is intended to characterize risks posed by SBW outbreaks to a wide array of forest values (e.g., timber and non-timber products, trade and market access, fire risk, and other forest goods and services). This has been accomplished by (i) integrating our latest understanding of SBW biology, ecology, and management; (ii) qualifying our confidence in that understanding; (iii) identifying gaps; and (iv) identifying research priorities that will reduce uncertainty. The latter four elements were part of a multifaceted risk analysis (details provided below). Our work is not a systematic review but rather a synthesis of knowledge by experts, with support from the literature and external review. Ultimately, this report is intended to be a reference for forest pest managers in developing contemporary strategies for SBW management and to provide background for decision makers and policymakers whose goals are to minimize or mitigate risks associated with SBW outbreaks. The report is also intended to help research managers and researchers identify areas of inquiry that will help address knowledge gaps and reduce existing uncertainty.