Gypsy Moth Spray Program - 2021

Background:

Whereas Council received Public Works Report 2021-0054 outlining the results of the Gypsy Moth egg mass surveys, management recommendations, and associated costs. This report serves to fulfill the requirements of Policy S802-03 to inform Council of the proposed spray blocks, and present the by-law amendment required to implement an aerial spray program using the biologic control agent Bacillus thuringiensis subspecies kurstaki (Btk) in and around public trees and trees on private lands within the Town of Pelham.

Analysis:

Lallemand Inc. /Bioforest (BioForest) worked in conjunction with staff to develop aerial spray blocks to fit within the available spray budget. Consideration was given to the Gypsy Moth Management Policy S802-03, as well as, the 2021 defoliation forecast, and a number of other criteria.

To allow the 2021 Gypsy Moth Aerial Spray Program to be implemented, and to allow for the aerial application of Btk to manage gypsy moth population on both public and private lands, the existing By-Law 4208(2020) is required to be repealed and replaced with By-Law 4334(2021) to include the spray blocks identified.

A key component to the overall 2021 gypsy moth management strategy is communication. Staff have developed a communications plan including print and social media posts outlining the Town’s plan and approach to managing the infestation, as well as home control methods. Bang the Table will be utilized in lieu of Public Meetings to satisfy the requirements of Policy S802-03.

As proposed in the 2020-PW-24 Gypsy Moth Services Project, BioForest has developed a Forest Health Volunteer Program with the purpose of increasing the knowledge and awareness of forest health issues in the community. The program will help build a motivated group of volunteers, and engage them in activities that assist the Town with forest health and pest management.

The implementation of aerial spray application over urban/residential areas is highly specialized. Low-level, aerial spraying over residential areas requires the use of a double-engine helicopter, as well as, federal and provincial permits. Staff have explored options for aerial spray service providers, including competitors in the rural spraying industry. Staff have confirmed that Zimmer Air Services remains the only applicator in eastern Canada with the ability to spray over urban/residential areas. As a result, it is necessary to enter into a non-competitive procurement contract with Zimmer Air Services as done in 2009, 2019, and 2020.

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