West. The major problem areas in the West are in California, 

 Idaho, Nevada, Oregon, and Washington. Damage has been 

 greatest in overstocked and overmature stands and in stands 

 where past harvesting practices and successful fire control have 

 encouraged the growth of tree species susceptible to pests, 

 drought, and fire. In the East, southern pine beetle, gypsy moth, 

 and hardwood declines continued as concerns. 



Because of the several forest health problems, particularly in the 

 West, Congress held five hearings during 1992 on forest health 

 and related issues. Questions were asked about how forests that 

 are already damaged will be restored and how similar damage will 

 be prevented elsewhere. 



One of the areas frequently discussed during the hearings was the 

 Blue Mountains of Northeastern Oregon and Southeastern 

 Washington. Epidemic insect infestations and several consecutive 

 years of drought have combined to cause serious damage to the 

 forests of the Blue Mountains. Factors that contributed to the 

 problem include past har\'esting practices and successful fire con- 

 trol that altered the species composition of the forests. In 1992, 

 the Forest Sendee began a new initiative in the Blue Mountains to 

 mitigate the damage and begin restoring the forests to a healthy 



Combined effects of drought and pests caused extensive 

 defoliation and death of Douglas-fir and true firs in 

 areas of the Blue Mountains of Oregon. 



Introduction 



