Forest Insects and Diseases

The Forest Pest Management Program assists landowners and professional resource managers in identifying and managing forest insects and diseases. We also work to prevent and control non-native, invasive insects and diseases that threaten Montana forests.

Learn to IDENTIFY and MANAGE common forest insects and diseases.
USDA Forest Service Forest Insect and Disease Leaflets offer in-depth information on nearly any insect or disease you might encounter.
Specific questions about your forested property? Contact the local service forester.
Yard or ornamental tree questions? Contact an arborist or your local MSU Extension Agent.
Forest Pest Management Program offers a variety of trainings and workshops tailored to an audience’s particular needs. Recent events have been hosted by:

We also provide professional workshops for foresters, arborists, pesticide applicators, etc.
Interested in a training or presentation? Contact your local service forester to set up an event.

Additional Resources

Forest Health Highlights briefly summarize annual forest health conditions in Montana.
Aerial Detection Survey spatial data is collected annually by the USDA Forest Service and estimates the extent and severity of forest insects and diseases.
Montana Invasive Species Council advises the governor on invasive species, including tree and forest pests.

Western Bark Beetle Initiative grants support thinning projects on non-federal public lands and are intended to make forests more resilient to bark beetle outbreaks. Recent projects include:

City of Helena Conservation Lands
Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks
State of Montana Trust Lands

Program Manager:

Amy Gannon

406-542-4283