On this page
Native forest insects and diseases have an important role in maintaining healthy and resilient forest ecosystems. They contribute to forest succession by:
- removing old or weakened trees
- recycling nutrients back into the soil
- creating habitat for wildlife
However, large outbreaks of native and non-native (invasive) insects and diseases can cause significant ecological impacts and economic losses; under these circumstances, they are considered forest pests.
Integrated forest pest management is a science-based, decision-making approach used to respond to forest pest populations. It is guided by monitoring and risk assessment to minimize ecological, economic and social impacts while maintaining forest health.
The Canadian Forest Service (CFS) provides national leadership in forest pest management science and technology, and works with partners, including the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA), to protect Canada’s forests.
When outbreaks occur
Under certain conditions, forest pest populations can increase rapidly and spread, leading to large-scale outbreaks that may cause:
- widespread tree mortality
- economic losses for forest-based industries
- increased wildland fire risk
- long-term change to ecosystems
Forest resource managers address three key objectives when deciding whether intervention is required:
- assess risks: evaluate the likelihood and impacts of infestation and/or their spread
- respond effectively: implement measures that minimize negative impacts and maximize positive outcomes on forest, environmental and social values
- build understanding, trust and support: clearly communicate risks, impacts and response actions to decision-makers, stakeholders and the public
Shared responsibilities
Forest pest management in Canada is shared across governments and landowners. Roles vary depending on the forest pest and where the outbreak occurs. In general:
- federal, provincial, territorial and municipal governments manage forest pests on lands within their respective jurisdictions
- federal government oversees regulated invasive species
- private forest landowners manage forest pests on their own lands
Across all jurisdictions, efforts focus on:
- maintaining forest health
- preventing the introduction and spread of invasive species
Science-driven, targeted action
Management actions are based on the best available scientific evidence and consider both short- and long-term impacts. Forest managers rely on research, monitoring data and new technologies to guide their decisions. Intervention measures target the specific forest pest and the affected area, instead of being applied broadly.
The CFS supports forest managers nationwide by advancing forest pest management science and technology. Working with provincial and territorial partners, including through the Canadian Council of Forest Ministers, the CFS:
- facilitates dialogue
- shares data and information
- synthesizes knowledge and expertise
- advances coordinated approaches to monitoring, risk assessment and management
Integrated forest pest management:
- recognizes insects and diseases as natural parts of ecosystems
- aims to prevent and keep pest damage at acceptable levels
- uses monitoring and risk assessment to guide decisions
- integrates control methods while minimizing risks for the environment and people
- relies on collaboration across jurisdictions and stakeholders
This approach helps ensure that Canada’s forests remain healthy, resilient and sustainable for future generations.
Find out more
- National Forest Pest Management Forum
- Trees, insects, mites and diseases of Canada's forests
- Insect production and quarantine laboratories (laboratory-reared insects)
- National Forestry Database: Forest insects
- Invasive alien species strategy (Environment and Climate Change Canada)
- Invasive pests and plants (Canadian Food Inspection Agency)
- Healthy forests: Natural disturbances (Canadian Council of Forest Ministers)