Hazard of European Pine Shoot Moth to Western Pine Forests

Abstract European pine shoot moth, Rhyacionia buoliana (Schiff.), a potential pest of western pine forests, is widespread on ornamental pines in the Pacific Northwest. Studies in central Oregon pine stands and analysis of climatic data pertaining to shoot moth survival suggest that low winter temperatures will safeguard most of the pine region from shoot moth damage. Climatic conditions favorable to shoot moth, however, could pose a real threat to pine stands and plantations in southern and southwest Oregon, northern and central California, and possibly southwestern United States.