Native forest insects are an essential part of the forest ecosystem. However, increased density beyond a threshold, or their invasive nature – as seen with Spruce budworm (SBW) in eastern Quebec in recent years – can cause long-lasting damage to a healthy ecosystem. Developing tools and means for identifying risk early on, to effectively deploy control measures, has been one of the critical objectives of collaborative research through the “SBW Early Intervention Strategy” network, with researchers from NRCanCFS, the Healthy Forest Partnership, provincial governments, universities, industry, and FPInnovations. This information is especially needed for the comprehensive forest management program used for timely intervention in New Brunswick.