Aspects of Yellow Birch Dieback in Nova Scotia

Throughout portions of the northeastern United States and the eastern provinces of Canada dying of yellow birch and beech has alarmed foresters. Decadence of birch resembles that commonly following logging in virgin stands but this birch malady occurs in both logged over and virgin stands. The damage has frequently been attributed to feeding by the bronze birch borer. The author presents evidence to show that factors other than direct attack by insects or pathogenic fungi must be involved. Salvage operations and light cuttings aimed at improving the vigor of birch are recommended.