Verbenone

The Pine Beetle is the most destructive forest pest in North America. The Canadian Forest Service describes the current pine beetle epidemic as the largest insect infestation in North American history.

Contech® Verbenone vs. Beetleblock® Verbenone

Verbenone Fact: After extensive USFS testing at both its Missoula, MT and Pineville, LA Technology Development Centers of both our Contech® brand verbenone and Beetleblock® brand verbenone pouches, the USFS chose our Contech® verbenone in 2008, 2009 and again in 2010 as its primary supplier for its purchase of verbenone pouches.

Verbenone and how it works.  Beetles and other insects communicate using pheromones. Verbenone a synthetic pheromone treatment for high value pine trees & replicates the beetle pheromone, sending a message that the tree is full and that the food supply is insufficient for additional beetles. Arriving beetles receive the "verbenone message" that they should look elsewhere for a suitable host.

Does Verbenone really work?  Verbenone has been used as part of integrated pest management programs (IPM) for more than a decade. Many studies show that areas treated with Verbenone, as part of an IPM program, fare significantly better than those that are not.

How safe is Verbenone?  Verbenone is environmentally safe and non-toxic to humans, pets, birds, and even the beetles themselves. Always follow the verbenone label instructions provided.

How to use Verbenone.  Staple or nail the first Verbenone pouch 7 feet high (2m) on the north face of the tree just prior to beetle flight season (April to June, depending upon location). Attach the second pouch just prior to peak flight (usually mid-August). Each box includes two pouches of Verbenone.

VERBENONE APPLICATION:
       Timing - A single (1)  verbenone application mid to late June prior to beetle flight or two (2) verbenone applications late May and again mid July.
       Rate - 1 or 2 verbenone applications per season, one (1) verbenone pouch/application std. and two (2) verbenone pouches/application on high value trees. Thirty (30) verbenone pouchs/acre, 150 verbenone pouchs/ 5 acres. 
       Detailed Verbenone Application Instructions - pg1    pg2
 
Verbenone FAQ's: pdf

RESOURCES:
     FINAL Smuggler Verbenone Report 2010  doc
     EPA Verbenone Fact Sheet  link