Rating forest stand susceptibility to southern pine beetle in East Texas

Abstract A stand rating system was developed from site and stand data collected from 900 beetle-infested and non-infested pine stands in eastern Texas. The model predicts the probability of southern pine beetle attack over a 3-year period and requires data for pine basal area/ha, average tree height, and a categorical evaluation of landform. All variables can readily be determined in the field. Predicted probabilities of attack are valid given certain geographical constraints and assuming epidemic beetle population levels.