When insects and diseases, whether native or introduced, compete with humans for resources, they are considered pests. Forest pest outbreaks can have significant ecological impacts on ecosystems, cause economic losses and disrupt communities. The Canadian Forest Service leads nationwide research to assess, monitor and respond to forest pest threats in collaboration with partners across Canada and around the world.
Most requested
- Trees, Insects, Mites and Diseases of Canada’s Forests
- Why forests need fires, insects and diseases
- State of Canada’s Forests annual report – How does disturbance shape Canada’s forests
Tools and services
Forest insect and disease risk maps
Broad-scale, climate-based risk maps of native and non-native forest insects and diseases in Canada.
Insect production and quarantine laboratories
Laboratory-reared insects available to purchase for research on forest insect outbreaks and environmentally responsible protection tools.
Forest insect statistics
Monitoring insect-caused forest damage helps determine impacts on timber supply, wildland fire risk and other forest values.
BioSIM
Forecasting events in the seasonal biology of forest pests and their host plants.
Programs and initiatives
National Forest Pest Management Forum
The most significant annual gathering of experts on forest insects, pests and diseases in Canada.
Scientific collections
Insect and arthropod collections
- Great Lakes Forestry Centre - insect collection
- Laurentian Forestry Centre - René Martineau Insectarium
- Northern Forestry Centre - arthropod collection
- Pacific Forestry Centre - arthropod reference collection
Plant and fungal collections
- Laurentian Forestry Centre - René Pomerleau Herbarium
- Pacific Forestry Centre - Forest pathology herbarium
Feature
Identifying forest pests
Canada’s forests face constant threats from insects and diseases. Early detection, identification and surveillance are key to limiting damage and protecting forest health.