www.langleytimes.com The Langley Times
Tuesday, April 22, 2014 15
GOGREEN
Time to start weeding out the use of conventional pesticides Wiarton Willie may have correctly predicted a few extra weeks of winter this past Groundhog Day, but with freshly mulched gardens now bursting with a kaleidoscope of the season’s brightest colours, we can all take delight in knowing spring has most definitely sprung. However, green thumbs and lovers of immaculate lawns have likely noticed it’s not just the daffodils, tulips and crocuses popping up in all their glory. So too have those pesky weeds, funguses and other generally unwelcome guests. To rid gardens and lawns of prickly lettuce, crab grass and the like, a squirt here and a spray there of conventional chemical pesticide was once the norm. However, with increasing evidence linking pesticide exposure to serious health and environmental problems, people and, in fact, entire cities are making the move from toxic chemical based insecticides, herbicides and fungicides to more eco-friendly solutions. Over the last few years, over 170 Canadian municipalities – including the City of Langley – have passed bylaws banning the use of cosmetic pesticides. While the City of Langley’s bylaw does not apply to agricultural lands, industrial lands, commercial properties and golf courses, it does apply to all residential properties and city-owned land, including parks and playing fields. “We have a responsibility not only to protect the health of our environment, but also the health of our residents,” said Len Walters, superintendent of parks operations for the City of Langley. “There has been strong support from the public, including landscaping companies, so I think most people are beginning to really understand and value the benefits of going green.” A comprehensive review of pesticide research conducted by the Ontario College of Family Physicians indicated that people who are exposed to pesticides are at a greater risk for cancer, reproductive problems and neurological diseases. The study also showed children are particularly vulnerable to pesticides. Also at risk from pesticides are family pets and many wildlife species, including fish, frogs, earthworms and pollinators, such as bees, which are vital to the world’s food supply. Like any new way of doing things, Walters says there’s “a bit of a learning curve” to going green, but the investment is well worth it. “You have to change your expectations a little,” he said. “It’s not realistic to expect a perfect, totally weed-free lawn. However, I always remind people that some weeds are actually good for your lawn. Clover, for example, provides nitrogen, which is a natural fertilizer. When it comes to unwanted weeds, cultural controls like aeration, topdressing, over-seeding and proper irrigation practices really help. I also recommend applying mulch at the base of shrubs and trees because it acts as a weed suppressant and helps with water retention.” Walters’ parks staff use insecticidal soap for a variety of garden pests. Other eco-friendly solutions include:
Like other municipalities, under the City of Langley’s pesticide bylaw, conventional pesticides may be applied by a provincially certified pesticide applicator in the case of an infestation that poses an immediate risk of damage to property or significant financial loss. “It’s very possible to have a beautiful, chemicalfree lawn and garden,” said Walters. “The first and most important step in going green is to research the many alternatives to pesticide use.” For a handy list of non-toxic, environmentally friendly products; helpful environment friendly gardening tips; and information on pesticide disposal, visit the “Pesticide Use” tab under the “Residents” heading at city.langley.bc.ca.
SHOPPING GREEN.
MAKE A DONATION AND RECEIVE A FREE BAG OF LOCALLY GROWN PRODUCE APRIL 22 - 25 Shopping in your community and buying locally produced product is good for the environment and your health. During Earth Week, be one of the first 250 people per day to make a donation to the Heart & Stroke Foundation and receive a free bag of locally grown produce! Redeem offer at Willowbrook Centre Court, by Purdys Chocolatier. One offer per person, April 22 - 25, 2014, or while quantities last. Offer compliments of Willowbrook Shopping Centre and Kin's Farm Market. Suggested donation $5.
• Acetic acid (household vinegar) • Corn gluten meal
For more information, please visit shopwillowbrook.com.
• Mineral or plant-based dormant oil • Sulphur (Bordeaux mixture, lime sulphur)
Donations benefit
• Diatomaceous earth
HEART & STROKE
• Nematodes and other biological control organisms
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• Borax (ferric phosphate) • Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) • Pheromone traps • Non-toxic sticky media traps SHOPWILLOWBROOK.COM
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