Pest Problems

Introduction

• Introduction
• Policy
• Lawns and Boulevards
• Trees
• Problem Weeds
• Mushrooms

The City of Vancouver was the first municipality in Canada to adopt an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) approach to managing pest infestations. Whereby cultural, mechanical and biological controls are used in preference to chemical applications. Following the implementation of our IPM policy, a number of other municipalities throughout the province and the country have followed suit. The program has allowed us to identify the importance of a more holistic approach to the maintenance of our urban plantings. Therefore, with our focus on pest prevention, we have reduced and in some cases even eliminated our dependence on pesticides.

What is IPM?

An IPM program is defined as the best combination of cultural, biological, genetic, and chemical methods for the most effective and economical control of pests. Inherent in the approach is an emphasis on "Integrated" - an approach whereby all aspects of the pest problem are included in determining treatment strategies that are focussed and have little or no side-effects on non-pest species or predators of pests. The use of a variety of "tools" lessens the dependence on any one tool and also lessens its use. Increased control through non-chemical methods will conversely decrease chemical use.

Why should I care?

Following a public outcry against broadcast applications of herbicides on park grounds, the Vancouver Park Board adopted an Integrated Pest Management Policy in 1987. The program was implemented in 1990 with the creation of the Integrated Pest Management Coordinator position. The IPM staff act as consultants to the various arboriculture and horticulture departments.

Since the implementation of the IPM program, pesticide use in the City of Vancouver has steadily diminished. All neighbourhood parks, sports fields and playgrounds are now pesticide-free. Bloedel conservatory, VanDusen garden and Sunset nursery have minimal pesticide use. Most control is achieved culturally or biologically.