Pesticide Use in Colwood

The City of Colwood is taking steps to implement a pesticide use bylaw to help reduce the amount of cosmetic or non-essential pesticides used on private land in Colwood.

Pesticides present a potential health risk, especially to children and animals, as well as the environment. Although used for one "targeted pest", many beneficial organisms, like ladybugs and bees, are very susceptible to pesticides. Other organisms, like fish and invertebrates, can also be affected if pesticides are unintentionally washed into creeks and streams.

Colwood values its unique location and environment and recognizes the need to safeguard waterways, ecological habitats, and cultural heritage.

When needed, the City will manage pests through and Integrated Pest Management program that reinforces Colwood's commitment to environmental stewardship and eliminates non-essential pesticide use on public lands, with the highest standards possible. This shift has already begun, in May, thousands of ladybugs and aphid midges were released as a way to manage the damage caused by pests such as aphids.

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Thank you to everyone who shared input to help guide Council decisions

Residents were encouraged to provide input to help the City understand the impacts of a pesticide use bylaw in Colwood. With only a small number of people responding, the engagement findings were not significant. Of those who participated, 64% supported limiting pesticide use in Colwood.

Get details about Pesticide Use in Colwood at www.colwood.ca/PesticideUse