Pine beetles just taste of warming's effect: B.C. forestry official

The mountain pine beetle infestation that has devastated B.C. forests is likely to be followed by other new pests taking advantage of rising average temperatures, says the president the Forest Products Association of Canada.

Avram Lazar says the B.C. beetle infestation is almost certain to move across the Rockies into the boreal forest. He believes it shows the need for more public focus on adaptation to climate change.

“We're a little obsessed with this because were paying the price right now,” said Mr. Lazar in a discussion with reporters. “The mountain pine beetle would've died if we hadn't had the last 12 winters being the warmest 12 winters on record.”

from the Globe and Mail Canada