More areas in Ontario now regulated for the hemlock woolly adelgid insect
News release
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has expanded the regulated area for hemlock woolly adelgid (HWA) in Ontario. The new regulated area now includes the Regional Municipality of Niagara, Haldimand County, the City of Hamilton and the Township of Alnwick/Haldimand. This expansion follows detections of HWA outside of the previously regulated area and is part of the CFIA’s ongoing efforts to slow the spread of this destructive insect.
Under these regulations, hemlock materials–including plants for planting, logs, branches and woodchips–as well as any species of firewood, may not be moved outside of the regulated area unless authorized by the CFIA. Individuals or businesses needing to move restricted materials are advised to contact their local CFIA office for guidance and authorization.
Hemlock trees play a vital role in protecting watersheds and streams in natural forests. The spread of HWA and the resulting loss of hemlock trees could have serious consequences for biodiversity and environmental health.
HWA is an invasive insect that kills hemlock trees by feeding on nutrients and water storage cells at the base of needles. HWA is currently impacting areas in both Ontario and Nova Scotia.
The CFIA is working in collaboration with federal, provincial, municipal and Indigenous partners as well as other organizations to slow the spread of HWA and protect Canadian forests.
Quick facts
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Moving untreated firewood is a common way for invasive insects and diseases to spread.
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HWA can spread naturally via wind, birds, animals and human movement of nursery stock, logs and other wood products, including firewood. The public is urged not to move firewood and hemlock products to prevent the spread of HWA.
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The CFIA regulates this pest to protect Canada's forests, municipal trees and nurseries.
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To report signs of HWA, please contact the CFIA.
Associated links
Contacts
Media Relations
Canadian Food Inspection Agency
613-773-6600
cfia.media.acia@inspection.gc.ca
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Each day, hard-working Canadian Food Inspection Agency employees—including inspectors, veterinarians, and scientists—inspect food for safety risks, work to protect plants from pests and invasive species, and respond to animal diseases that could threaten Canada’s animal resource base and human health. Guided by science-based decision-making and modern regulations, the Agency verifies that food sold in Canada is safe while supporting access to international markets for our high-quality agricultural products. To learn more, visit inspection.canada.ca