The Unit was organized to exchange ideas, experiences, and new technologies relative to the use of chemical and microbial pesticides and semiochemicals for management of damaging forest defoliating insects endemic to Eurasia and North America.

Emphasis is placed on the judicious use of pesticides within the framework of integrated pest management and their impact on non-target species and the environment in general. Specific tactics designed to suppress or eliminate low density pest populations such as release of sterile insects or parasitoids, augmentation of natural enemies, and application of pheromones are included as management tools.