Toronto, February 28, 2007 The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has
detected sixteen trees infested with the Asian Long-Horned Beetle (ALHB) within the
Regulated Area in the City of Toronto through regular survey activity.
The affected area is located in the Finch Avenue West and Weston Road area and is
comprised predominantly of industrial and residential properties. Approximately 800 trees
will be removed from these properties. In addition, the number of trees to be removed from
an associated ravine will be determined once surveying of the ravine has been completed.
Susceptible trees within 400 metres of the infested trees, on industrial and
residential properties and all susceptible trees, including maple, elm, willow, poplar and
birch, within 10 metres from the outer edge of the ravine will be removed after Notices to
Dispose have been delivered to affected property owners. Tree removal is the most
effective means available to eradicate this insect.
The CFIA is offering compensation to property owners for trees removed to prevent the
spread of the ALHB. Compensation is provided on the basis of the direct cost of replacing
the removed tree up to a set maximum amount. The maximum amounts are $300 per tree ordered
removed on privately-owned land, $150 per tree on public land, and $40 per tree in
woodlots.
The Asian Long-Horned Beetle Infested Place Order restricts the movement of
any susceptible tree materials (including nursery stock, trees, leaves, logs, lumber,
wood, wood chips and bark chips as well as firewood of all species) out of the Regulated
Area, unless authorized by the CFIA.
Preventing and managing invasive species such as the ALHB is undertaken by CFIA to
strengthen Canadas long-term competitiveness, protect its natural environment, and
contribute to the well-being of its citizens.
For more information on the ALHB
and on how to identify signs of infestation, please visit the CFIA website at
www.inspection.gc.ca or call us toll free at 1-800-442-2342. In Toronto, please call
416-665-5055.
-30-
For more information, please contact:
Canadian Food Inspection Agency
Media Relations (Ottawa): (613) 228-6682
Media Relations (Toronto-English): Ben Gasman, (416) 665-5055
Media Relations (Toronto-English): Howard Stanley, (416) 665-5055
Media Relations (Ottawa-French): Naima Ait Oumejjout, (613) 221-4534
