SPB population and distribution can be monitored by setting up specialized traps in strategic locations (Photo 8). These traps are designed to resemble the bole of a tree. These traps are placed in forested areas where pine is not present or represents a small component of the forest type. This method reduces the chance of spreading the SPB to to areas not previously invested. Eightteen -(18) traps were deployed in six - (6) southern NJ counties during the spring of 2003.

In 2003 traps were checked once a week for 11 weeks and the beetles were collected, identified, and counted. By collecting and recording the number of SPB and checkered beetle, a ratio of the two can be calculated and plotted. This ratio enables the NJ Forest Service to determine if:

• More checkered beetles than SPB could indicate biological control could be effective and no direct suppression activities are necessary.
• More SPB than checkered beetles could mean direct suppression activities are needed.
• The SPB population can be extreme, high, moderate, static or declining. Suppression activities would therefore have to be prescribed accordingly (Photo 10).