Social Implications

Fir engraver beetles and other beetles are bonded by social, economic, and artistic community ties:

Economic Impact

Infestations of this beetle can cause extremely strong economic loss for forest companies as a result of reduced harvesting of timber and a reduction in recreation or tourist business. The damage will have to be borne by the local communities that rely on such industries.

Policy and Management

The second, more novel development, is the call for beetle population control, leading to the formation of policies and rules on how forests ought to be cultivated — for example, whether it is being used as nature reserves and tourist centers (with explanations of rules posted where required) or conserved otherwise. This is the merged ground between science and technology and public policy.

Awareness and Education among the General Public

As these insects — such as the fir engraver beetle — have metamorphosed from just another aspect of nature to a massive ecological threat, education and public-relations work are being emphasized more and more, as both the profession and public look for ways to plant seeds for sustainable practices that extend to areas of communal property.

Reference: