Tree-ring reconstruction of western spruce budworm outbreaks in the Rio Grande National Forest, Colorado

Abstract

Tree-ring records were used to reconstruct the spatial and temporal patterns of western spruce budworm (Choristoneura occidentalis Freeman) outbreaks in the Rio Grande National Forest (RGNF) of southern Colorado. Reconstructions at 11 host stands showed a synchronous pattern of outbreaks with a peak in the number of trees recording outbreaks over the entire RGNF on average every 24 years. These synchronous periods of outbreaks coincided with periods of increased moisture as indicated by an independently reconstructed summer Palmer Drought Severity Index, while relatively few trees recorded outbreaks during dry periods. The reconstruction on the RGNF does not support the hypothesis that human land use has significantly altered outbreak patterns. Tree response to outbreaks in the RGNF was different from prior studies as reductions in growth were typically detectable only when growth was compared to that of nonhost tree species.