Forest health
Last updated on January 30, 2025The objective of Forest Health is to protect and manage B.C.'s forest resources from the impacts of a wide range of forest health factors including bark beetles, defoliators, pathogens and abiotic damage, in addition to integrating the effects of invasive species and climate change.
Forest insects and pathogens can be non-invasive or invasive. Non-invasive insects and pathogens are naturally found in British Columbia forests. Invasive insects and pathogens have been accidently introduced or have migrated to B.C. Regardless of origin, established populations can cause severe damage to the forest.
Forest insect pests
Pests impacting British Columbia's forests include bark beetles, weevils, budworms, and moths. These insects are both invasive and non-invasive.
Learn more about insect pests
Forest pathogens
Invasive and non-invasive fungal pathogens found in British Columbia forest cause both defoliation and root diseases.
Learn more about pathogens
Spongy moth
The European spongy moth (Lymantria dispar; formerly referred to as gypsy moth) was introduced from Europe to the northeastern U.S. in 1869. The North American strain of the moth was first seen in B.C. in 1978.
Learn more about the spongy moth
Additional forest health damage factors
In additional to pests and pathogens, other factor including abiotic (non-living), wildlife and stand declines can have an effect on forest health.
Forest health monitoring
The provincial aerial overview survey is the cornerstone of forest health monitoring in B.C.
Forest monitoring in B.C.
Strategy and legislation
Forest Health legislation and regulations guide forest health management practices.
Health strategy and legislation
Forest Health Bulletin
The Forest Health Bulletins feature recent research and program highlights from across the province:
Learn more
Contact information
Contact us if you have further questions about Forest Health in B.C.