Halifax to assess, treat hemlock trees affected by invasive insect

Halifax has started assessing hemlock trees for invasive insects.

Preparation work to help protect Eastern hemlock trees affected by an invasive insect will soon begin in the Halifax Regional Municipality (HRM).

Hemlock woolly adelgid (HWA) poses a serious threat to hemlocks and without treatment can cause widespread tree loss.

The insects attack and kill hemlock trees by feeding on nutrient and water storage cells at the base of needles, according to the Canadian Food Inspection Agency.

Municipal staff, volunteers and contractors will assess and mark tees in parks and forested areas, including Hemlock Ravine Park in Halifax and Sandy Lake Regional Park in Bedford.

HRM says more locations will be confirmed and posted online as the season progresses.

Trees that need treatment will be marked with brightly coloured flagging tape.

Signs will also be posted in affected areas to let people visiting the park know about the upcoming treatment activities.

“The municipality uses an injection-only treatment method, where a small, measured amount of regulated insecticide is injected directly into affected trees. This approach keeps the product inside the tree, preventing exposure to air, soil, water, pollinators, wildlife and people,” reads a news release from HRM.

“This means parks do not have to be closed to the public during treatment. Spraying or misting is not being used at this time.”

The release adds the first potential treatment cycle is scheduled for Sunday at Hemlock Ravine, pending final logistical planning.

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