Pest Management Program - Fernie

Invasive Plant PEST MANAGEMENT PROGRAM

March 2014 City of Fernie

Pest Management Program

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Invasive Plant

PEST MANAGEMENT PROGRAM City of Fernie

Prepared for:

City of Fernie Leisure Services

501-3rd Ave., Box 190 Fernie, BC V0B 1M0

Prepared by:

West Fork Resource Management 1289 Ponderosa Drive

Sparwood, BC V0B 2G2

March 2014


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Contents

PART ONE – INTRODUCTION.............................................................................................. 4 1.1 Vision................................................................................................................................................. 4 1.2 Purpose ............................................................................................................................................. 4 1.3 What is a Pest ................................................................................................................................. 4

PART TWO – INTEGRATED MANAGEMENT ........................................................................ 5 2.1 Prevention Actions .......................................................................................................................... 5 2.2 Early Detection Actions .................................................................................................................. 6 2.3 Establishing Priority Actions .......................................................................................................... 7 Table 1 Priority Invasive Species in the East Kootenay Region (EKIPC) ............................. 7 Table 2 Site Prioritization ............................................................................................................ 9 Table 3 Priority Matrix ............................................................................................................. 10 2.4 Management and Control Actions ............................................................................................ 10 2.5 Treatment Precautions in Public Use Areas ............................................................................. 13 2.6 Site Specific Management ......................................................................................................... 13 Table 4 Site Specific Management ........................................................................................ 14 Figure 1 Annex Park Dyke ....................................................................................................... 17 Figure 2 Dogwood Park ........................................................................................................... 18 Figure 3 Fernie Aquatic Centre ............................................................................................... 19 Figure 4 Fernie Cemetery ......................................................................................................... 20 Figure 5 Parkland Terrace ....................................................................................................... 21 2.7 Monitoring ..................................................................................................................................... 22 2.8 Evaluation...................................................................................................................................... 23

PART THREE - SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENTAL GUIDELINES DURING PESTICIDE USE ..... 24 3.1 Storage and Handling ................................................................................................................ 24 3.2 Transportation .............................................................................................................................. 24 3.3 Application ................................................................................................................................... 24 3.4 Posted Treatment Notices .......................................................................................................... 25 3.5 Spill Procedures ........................................................................................................................... 25 3.6 Environmental Protection Strategies ........................................................................................ 25 3.7 Legislative Context ...................................................................................................................... 26 Table 5 Legislation Governing Pest Management .............................................................. 26

PART FOUR - 5 YEAR PLAN GOALS .................................................................................. 27

GLOSSARY ......................................................................................................................... 28

REFERENCES ...................................................................................................................... 29

APPENDIX I HERBICIDE SELECTION CHART .................................................................. 30

APPENDIX II CITY OF FERNIE INVASIVE PLANT TREATMENT RECORD .................... 30

APPENDIX III PESTICIDE USE NOTICE ............................................................................. 33


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APPENDIX IV INVASIVE PLANT SPECIES IDENTIFICATION AND CONTROL GUIDE 34


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PART ONE – INTRODUCTION

1.1 Vision The City of Fernie demonstrates an integrated approach in protecting its natural areas while supporting environmental, recreational, and aesthetic values of the community. Targeted pests are kept under control, without compromising the health of humans and native ecosystems.

1.2 Purpose The purpose of this integrated pest management plan is to provide guidelines for City departments and contractors directly involved with managing vegetation and pests, planning, design, or construction of new and renovated landscapes, facilities, and civic land. It will also provide administrative guidelines for Council, boards, and staff indirectly involved with vegetation and pest management. It will set an example for all citizens and businesses in Fernie, demonstrating environmental stewardship by promoting integrated pest management practices in all aspects of City planning and development. The overall goal is to minimize the use pesticides while controlling pests. By having a better understanding of our ecological processes, we can strive to maintain this balance in our ecosystems using preventative measures. At this time, this Plan is specific to invasive plants in natural areas, low to moderate profile recreational areas, industrial areas and utility right of ways and does not directly pertain to intensively managed turf such as sports fields and golf courses, or high profile ornamental gardens or boulevards. However, prevention measures outlined in this Plan can be applied to all activities relating to landscape management within a municipality. This plan is supplemental to the City of Fernie Invasive Plant Strategy, providing specific management actions to be performed in order to achieve identified goals. There is a proposed objective, outlined in Part Four, to consider including all targeted pests (insects, animals and diseases) within the City into a comprehensive integrated pest management plan by 2019.

1.3 What is a Pest A pest is defined in the Federal Pest Control Products Act as “any injurious, noxious or troublesome insect, fungus, bacterial organism, virus, weed, rodent or other plant or animal pest, and includes any injurious, noxious or troublesome organic function of a plant or animal”. The definition is also related to the situation or size of the pest population that adversely interferes with the aesthetic, health, environmental, functional, or economic goals of humans. The federal definition essentially states that a pest is any organism that poses a threat to our resources, human health, and/or exists in an undesirable location. The word “pest” in this integrated pest management plan pertains solely to invasive plants at this time. It does not pertain to nuisance weeds, insects, animals or disease.


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PART TWO – INTEGRATED MANAGEMENT The goal of an integrated pest management program is to achieve long term invasive plant control through balanced management that is consistent with legislation, community values, and environmental protection. When put into action appropriately, this program results in improved management, lower costs, ease of maintenance, and reduced environmental and economic impacts. In order to achieve these results, the implementation of a pest management program requires the following:

• Strategic, monitoring-based, prevention-oriented management • Extensive communication and cooperation among local government departments, non-government

organizations, private industry, and landowners • Public education and awareness programs implemented in cooperation with local weed committees • Continued resourcefulness and innovation by invasive plant managers

The following section summarizes the elements of an integrated pest management program, and highlights key activities and recommendations specific to sites within the City of Fernie.

• Prevention • Identification and early detection • Site prioritization • Treatment and control options • Monitoring • Evaluation of treatment and program success

2.1 Prevention Actions The key to reducing invasive plant populations is to prevent them from establishing. A crucial first step is to ensure all staff and contractors are following protocol when designing, constructing or modifying landscapes;

• Minimize soil disturbance, especially close to areas with weed infestations, as to prevent new infestations from establishing.

• Ensuring proper movement and disposal of soil and plant waste as to prevent seed transfer. • Plant aggressive ground-covers and mass plantings to reduce the space, nutrients and light available to

weeds. • Use organic materials (e.g., leaves, wood chips and bark) as mulches to prevent weed establishment and

emergence. • Provide ideal growing conditions, including light, fertilizer, water and other conditions for desired plants so

that they out compete the weeds. • Use certified weed-free nursery stock or seed mixture to prevent the importation of invasive seeds to new

planting areas or disturbed sites. • Eliminate potential problem areas during the design and landscape construction stages. • Keep equipment yards and storage areas free of invasive plants. • Inspect equipment (mowers, etc) undercarriages for seed heads and plant material after working in known

invasive plant sites, wash equipment prior to moving to a different site. Educate the community, particularly recreational trail users;

• Utilize the City bike wash located at the Aquatic Centre, specifically built to help remove seeds and plant material from bikes when travelling around the city and especially onto adjacent back country trails.

• Raise community awareness of invasive species and the importance of early detection and eradication.


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Designate responsibilities to Council, managers and contractors directly involved with the implementation of a pest management plan;

• Integrating invasive plant management into policies and initiatives, including the Official Community Plan and the Fernie Integrated Community Sustainability Plan.

• Work together with other local communities and organizations to identify new invasive plants before they establish.

• Monitor the distribution of emerging invasive plants annually to assess the effectiveness of preventative actions.

• Reviewing development applications to avoid or restrict the use of invasive plants. • Review the current Bylaw No.1587, requiring property owners to control invasive plants on their properties,

with associated fines for non-compliance.

2.2 Early Detection Actions Early detection of invasive plants within a landscape requires identification and documentation skills, which then provides a base for management decisions.

• Educate public works staff on invasive plant identification. • Hold an annual spring in-service with a slideshow, posters and/or brochures detailing the invasive plants that

are currently found within the City, and others to be aware of. • Emphasize the importance of early identification in the control and mitigation of weed populations. • Educate residents with brochures and where to obtain more information. • Use interpretive signage along pathways to educate the public on invasive plant identification. • Develop and implement a City wide reporting program, allowing staff and citizens to report weeds. This

reporting system should include the following vital details; UTMs, location description, weed species, and approximate size of infestation. o This can be as simple as a maintaining a comprehensive spreadsheet of all documented weed reports,

managed by an individual capable of organizing all incoming information. o Alternately, the existing BC Government Invasive Alien Plant Program Report (IAPP) online Report-a-

Weed Tool can be utilized, creating a link from the City website. • Provide a form or a posted phone number and/or email address that can be used as a reporting mechanism,

ensuring that all information is collected and managed in one location. • Managers and contractors directly involved with the invasive plant program should be competent in invasive

plant identification and plant physiology in order to identify emerging species and infestations.


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2.3 Establishing Priority Actions Prioritizing invasive plants for containment involves consideration of both the species and the site and may be accomplished by using a priority matrix.

2.3.1 Species Prioritization The following table categorizes invasive plant species found in the East Kootenay Region into four different categories; extremely invasive, very invasive, invasive, and aggressive or under biocontrol. The species designated with an asterisk (*) have documented sites within the Elk Valley (EKIPC). The species designated (1) have been identified as Priority One species in the Elk Valley by the East Kootenay Invasive Plant Council (EKIPC) These are invasive plants that have limited distribution in this area and are targeted by the EKIPC for control. Based on current knowledge, these Priority One species are limited within the Fernie area; therefore efforts should primarily be focused on the control of known sites, and preventing spread to other regions.

Table 1 Priority Invasive Species in the East Kootenay Region (EKIPC) CATEGORY 1 – EXTREMELY INVASIVE

Common Name Latin Name

Flat Peavine 1 Lathyrus sylvestris Hoary Alyssum Berteroa incana Hoary Cress Cardaria draba Leafy Spurge Euphorbia esula Meadow Clary (Perennial Sage) Salvai pratensis Orange Hawkweed * Hieracium aurantiacum Perennial Pepperweed Lepidium latifolium Policeman’s Helmut / Himilayan Balsam Impatiens glandulifera Purple Loosestrife Lythrum salicaria Rush Skeletonweed Chrondrilla juncea Scotch Broom Cytisus scoparius Yellow Flag Iris Iris pseudacorus Yellow Flowered non-native hawkweeds * CATEGORY 2 – VERY INVASIVE


Blueweed 1 Echium vulgare Common Tansy 1 Tanacetum vulgare Dalmatian Toadflax * Linaria dalmatica Diffuse Knapweed * Centaurea diffusa Japanese Knotweed 1 Fallopia Japonica Meadow Knapweed Centaurea pratensia Scentless Chamomile * Matricaria maritina Spotted Knapweed * Centaurea biebersteinii CATEGORY 3 –INVASIVE


Absinth Wormwood * Artemesia absinthium Baby’s Breath * Gypsophila panicaulata Canada Thistle * Cirsium arvense


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Common Toadflax * Linaria vulgaria Russian Knapweed Acroptilan repens Russian Thistle Salsola kali CATEGORY 4 – AGGRESSIVE OR UNDER BIOCONTROL


Black Locust Robinia pseudoacacia Chicory * Chicorium intybus Cleavers Galium aparine Hound’s Tongue * Cynoglossum officinale Oxeye Daisy * Leucanthemum vulgare St. John’s Wort * Hypericum perforatum

1 Classified as Priority One in the Elk Valley by EKIPC *Documented sites exists in the Elk Valley

The EKIPC also maintains a watch list of invasive species that are not currently known to exist in the East Kootenay region, and are targeted for mandatory control if found. Contact and collaboration with local and provincial invasive plant committees such as the EKIPC can play an important role in determining current and upcoming priority species.

2.3.2 Site Prioritization Once invasive plant sites are identified, they should then be prioritized for treatment. Sites can be categorized according to size, and their proximity to other infestations. Small, remote sites will generally be classified as a higher priority, particularity if they are in a susceptible area such as a backcountry trail where prohibiting seed travel to other remote locations is crucial. Smaller sites have a higher probability of control, and therefore should be targeted first in order to prevent large infestations from establishing. Infestations that border valuable natural areas and riparian areas should also be classified as higher priority in order to preserve and improve the ecological integrity of the area. Guidelines to site prioritization are summarized in Table 2 below.


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Table 2 Site Prioritization

Priority Characteristics Examples

Extremely High Risk 1

• Areas with a size of 0.25ha or less • Remote sites • Highly susceptible areas with little to no

other infestations • High probability of control

• Small infestations on backcountry trails

High Risk 2

• Areas with a size of 0.5ha or less • Highly susceptible areas • Good probability of control

• Small –medium infestations on trails leading to backcountry

• Infestations in riparian areas • Infestations along roads

Moderate Risk 3

• Areas greater than 0.5ha • Moderately susceptible risk • Good probability of control

• Large recreational areas with moderate public use

• Riparian areas with low public use

Low Risk 4

• Areas greater than 0.5ha • Low-moderate susceptibility • Moderate probability of control

• Inactive, low public use areas

Other factors may also come into consideration when determining site priority. These factors are dependent upon the location, and their influence may become more significant and codependent when implementing a pest management plan within a community such as the City of Fernie:

• Ecological value • Community value • Recreational value • Historical value • Accessibility • Feasibility of control

The final component to establishing priorities is the site and species combination matrix, as outlined below. Essentially, as the environmental site risk decreases and the extent of invasiveness decreases, the management strategy becomes less aggressive and there is less opportunity to control the species.


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Table 3 Priority Matrix Site

Priority Invasive Plant Species Priority

1 2 3 4

1

2

3

4

Very High Targeted for mandatory control/eradication to prevent spread to any other areas High Targeted for mandatory control or containment, assessing habitat or other high risks Moderate Targeted containment to a level based on cost/benefit analysis Low Control/monitoring will be based on cost/benefit analysis, potential for biological control

Example Blueweed is considered a Priority One species in the Elk Valley by the EKIPC and is present along the Elk River at Dogwood Park. Management for this area must take into consideration the ecological, community, and recreational values it represents:

• The City pathway system bisects this area, connecting it to many other parks and residential areas, therefore increasing the incidence of seed travel and establishment of infestations in other areas.

• The adjacent river system acts as a carrier for seed travel to other areas downstream. • There is a boat launch in this area, which results in increased vehicular traffic and increased likeliness of

seed travel. • The size of the actual blueweed site is relatively small • The site lies mostly within a riparian area, and pesticide-free zone (applicators must ensure a minimum of

10 meters pesticide free zone from adjacent water bodies) as legislated by the Ministry of Environment.

This combination of species and site factors makes the area a high priority for treatment. The fact that there is a riparian zone limits the control methods available, and all options must be taken into consideration.

Each season, participating managers will designate a targeted number of areas to treat, which will be dependent upon the annual budget. All of the identified areas will be re-assessed annually in the spring for effectiveness of the previous year’s treatment, and will be prioritized for the current year treatment. If it is found that some sites have responded well to treatments and have successfully shown a decrease in population density, priority may be given to new sites or others that require additional attention for that year. It is important to note that sites that may show an annual decrease in population density, or are observed to not have any new plants emerging cannot be removed from the comprehensive site list. Seeds may lay dormant in the soil for many years before germinating, therefore once added to the site list; each of these sites must be monitored and documented annually.

2.4 Management and Control Actions A variety of treatment options are available for the control of invasive plants, some sites will benefit from a combination of control methods. Substituting biological, physical or cultural controls for chemicals is promoted wherever feasible to reduce impacts on the environment, if these non-chemical alternatives have lower potential environmental impacts. When pesticides are used, they should be applied as efficiently as possible, through careful timing and properly calibrated equipment.


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2.4.1 Cultural Control Cultural control includes seeding, irrigating or fertilizing to encourage the establishment of healthy ground cover to resist invasive plants. When natural vegetation or soil is disturbed, cultural control can be an effective tool in invasive plant management. Seeded or intensively managed plant communities can offer competition for invasive plants. Where non-selective herbicides are used, control of present invasive plants will leave bare ground. In these cases, cultural control (i.e. seeding) should be used in combination with chemical control as part of a long-term management strategy. Re-vegetation can assist in preventing the return of an invasive plant or the introduction of new invasive species in an area. Cultural control can be used in environmentally sensitive areas, such as riparian zones. A site that would benefit from this control is Dogwood Park; if glyphosate (non-selective herbicide) is applied, it is important to re-vegetate any bare areas following treatments, using seeding or planting in this area in order to prevent the Blueweed population from increasing. 2.4.2 Biological Control Biocontrol agents are insects that are intentionally propagated because of their ability to target a specific plant species, and decrease the population density of that plant species by surviving off its seeds or other plant structures vital for reproduction. The goal of biological control is not to eradicate infestations, but to reduce population levels down to an acceptable, manageable level where environmental damage does not occur. When considering biocontrol, one or more of the following conditions should exist:

• Targeted invasive plant infestations that are large and well established • Other treatment options have proven not to be feasible, i.e. site is remote and not accessible • Targeted infestations should be in a low traffic area, as plants will continue to grow and reproduce

normally until the bioagent is well established, therefore viable seeds can still be spread via pedestrians, animals and bike traffic.

• Targeted infestations will be in natural areas, where vegetation is not maintained by mowing, trimming, fertilizing, irrigation, etc.

In consideration of these factors, many sites that have been identified in the City of Fernie do not represent optimal characteristics for the use of bioagents. Many sites are large and may be well established, but are also in areas that are maintained by mowing; many bioagents survive in the plant leaves and stem which will be removed if mowed. Many sites also have moderate to high public recreational use, which is a significant vector of seed travel, indicating that these sites would best be treated using other more initially effective control options. Treatment results from bioagents are generally slow to become apparent as some agents take years to establish and disperse, therefore other more efficient treatment options may be preferred. 2.4.3 Mechanical Control Examples of mechanical controls are as follows:

• Pruning and cutting • Mowing • Tilling • Covering/smothering • Hand pulling, digging/excavating • Spot burning

Mechanical control is feasible on small sites where herbicide cannot be used (i.e. infestations in close proximity to environmentally sensitive features or endangered species and where geographical features limit equipment access). Or it can be an effective primary step, followed by herbicide treatment to control re-growth. The characteristics of individual invasive plant species influence whether mechanical control methods are appropriate. For example,


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mowing can increase the growth of some species, and timing of treatment is critical. Rhizomatous rooted species do not respond well to mechanical treatments unless 100% of the plant material has been removed from the site. Some species such as spotted knapweed adapt to mowing treatments over time and instead of growing vertically, they begin to extend themselves horizontally along the ground, even managing to flower low enough to avoid mower blades. This has been observed in many of the mowed sites within the City of Fernie where spotted knapweed occurs; in these instances chemical treatments can play a secondary role in effective complete control. Physical treatment such as manual weeding, pruning and cutting are most appropriate on smaller, more intensively managed sites, as these labour intensive activities become more inefficient on large sites. Appropriate practices for mechanical treatment of a site include:

• Multiple treatments throughout the season • Proper disposal of invasive plants • Re-seeding with a certified weed free mixture • Conducting treatments prior to plant flowering and seeding

Many of the identified sites in the City of Fernie are public parks are currently maintained by public works operations by regular mowing, trimming, etc. This is beneficial to the development of the pest management program, as there are already controls in place to help manage invasive plant populations. These physical and mechanical controls may be used throughout the entire growing season. Other areas that would benefit from mowing or cutting are the pathways near the Aquatic Centre. There are dense knapweed infestations along some areas of these pathways and a mechanical treatment followed by a chemical treatment will help to prevent seed establishment and travel in these corridors.


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2.4.4 Chemical Controls If chemical controls are necessary, the least toxic, effective herbicide should be used. In order to maximize efficiency and effectiveness, treatments should be carefully timed according to species growth and specific to the herbicide being applied. The benefits of herbicide treatments include:

• A larger treatment area can be controlled • Soil disturbance is minimized • Residual chemical can control new plant growth for a year or two before degrading (depending on soil

texture; coarse gravelly soils enable more permeation and less chemical persistence, where as fine textured soils enable encourage more chemical residual.)

• Costs are significantly lower than mechanical methods Preferred herbicides include:

• Pre-emergent herbicides should be applied before weed seeds germinate as they will not kill established plants.

• Post-emergent, selective herbicides can be effective in controlling annual, biennial and perennial material while in an actively growing stage, before seed heads form.

• Post-emergent, non-selective, herbicides may be appropriate for use as spot treatments on deep rooted or rhizomatous perennial weeds in open ground, where there is no desirable vegetation present. These should be applied to actively growing weeds before seed heads form.

It important to note that chemical controls have restricted use within close proximity to: species at risk, domestic water intakes, water licenses, agricultural food production systems, environmentally sensitive or riparian areas, pesticide free zones (PFZ), no treatment zones (NTZ), or public use areas. They should be carefully selected with these variables in mind. Herbicides selected for use must be compatible with the City of Fernie Pest Management Program and must be applied with target specific application techniques whenever practical.

2.5 Treatment Precautions in Public Use Areas When determining invasive plant management strategies within a municipality, the level of public use must be taken into consideration. All precautions must be taken in order to protect public safety and prevent contact with pesticides. These precautions include:

• Maintaining a minimum 30m pesticide free buffer zone in and around playgrounds and water parks • Notifying the public of herbicide applications in parks and on trails a minimum of 24 hrs prior to treatment,

and leaving notices up for a minimum of 48 hrs following treatment • Notices will include an area description, date and time of treatment, targeted pest, pesticide name and

registration number, precautions to avoid contact, and company contact information, see Section 3.4 • Posting notice on city website • Posting Pesticide Use Notices at all entry points to parks, trails or public use areas to be treated • Treatments will be applied during periods of the lowest public activity, if possible • Treatments will be avoided near areas where children may be present • Notifying residents directly adjacent to treatment areas • Follow all application procedures outlined in Section 3.3 • Pesticides will be carefully chosen to be the least toxic

2.6 Site Specific Management


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A brief survey was completed in the fall of 2012 in areas known to contain invasive plant infestations, establishing a base for a treatment program. These five key areas are presented in Figures 1 through 5, and will be targeted as the initial treatment areas in 2014. The boundaries of these polygons are approximate; they include the general identified infested area. These infestations may or may not cover the entire polygon, and densities may vary greatly within each polygon. The following Table contains a description of each site, the management recommendations and precautions. This table should serve as a foundation for future site documentation as well as a tool in determining treatment options. These proposed actions suggest the most effective weed control for each site based on site and species characteristics. The primary weed management program should be based on preventative and cultural controls.

Table 4 Site Specific Management

Site Name & Priority

Area Characteristics

Invasive Plants Proposed Treatment Plan Specific Treatment

Precautions

Annex Park

Dyke Size: 2ha Priority Rating: Moderate (Figure 1)

• Recreational park • Pathways • Adjacent to Elk

River • Grassy open areas • Picnic areas • Mowed areas, as

well as natural areas

• Moderate public traffic

• Weed infestations mainly located in mowed areas

Spotted Knapweed Blueweed

Mowing, broad scale selective herbicide treatment in year one, followed by spot treatments of re-emerging plants in subsequent years. Mechanical treatment of dense knapweed along pathways, followed by a selective chemical treatment.

Treatments should be performed in times of low public traffic, such as early in the week, avoiding Fridays and weekends, and during morning hours, avoiding lunch hour and after work times. Avoid treatments immediately prior to planned events (i.e. music festivals). Post pesticide use notices at all entry points in advance, and during treatment.


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Dogwood

Park Size: 1.7ha Priority Rating: High (Figure 2)

• Recreational park • Pathway • Boat launch • Picnic areas • Parking area • Adjacent to Elk

River • Mowed areas • Natural areas • Moderate public

traffic on pathway • Weed infestations

along pathway and extends into riparian area

Blueweed Burdock Absinthe Wormwood Canada Thistle

Hand pulling or spot treatments of non-selective glyphosate herbicide on BW, BD, and WW within legislated riparian pesticide free zone. This is an excellent area to conduct community weed pull events, incorporating education on the importance of management of a riparian area and major river system. Spot treatments of emerging invasive plants outside pesticide free zone with selective herbicide. Seeding of disturbed areas from mechanical or hand pulling treatments. Mowing or cutting of large established plants prior to seed

Treatments should be performed in times of low traffic, such as early in the week, avoiding weekends, and during morning hours, avoiding lunch hour and after work times. Post pesticide use notices at all entry points in advance and during treatment.

Fernie

Aquatic Center

Size: 5.8ha Priority Rating: Moderate (Figure 3)

• Recreational area • Water park • Dirt Jump Park • Picnic shelter • Open grassy areas • Pathway • Parking area • Adjacent

residences • Mowed areas • Natural areas • Heavy public use • Weed infestations

in open grassy areas, along pathways, and dirt jump park, also in close proximity to residences

Spotted Knapweed Common Tansy Burdock

Mowing, broad scale selective herbicide treatment for spotted knapweed in year one, followed by spot treatments of re-emerging plants in subsequent years. Common Tansy and Burdock infestations are small, therefore cutting and disposal of these plants will eliminate seed production. Selective herbicide treatment on new emerging plants will help to control and decrease infestation densities. Mechanical treatment of dense knapweed along pathways, followed by a selective chemical treatment.

Treatments should be performed in times of low traffic, such as early in the week, avoiding weekends. Aim for morning hours, avoiding lunch hour and after work times. Establish a pesticide free buffer zone around the water park. Conduct public notifications for treatments occurring close to residences, hand out door to door notices to any affected citizens. Post pesticide use notices at all entry points in advance and during treatment.


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Fernie

Cemetery Size: 9.6ha Priority Rating: Moderate (Figure 4)

• Fenced • Mowed area in old

and new cemetery • Natural area in

future cemetery • Low public use • Weed infestations

widespread through all areas of cemetery

Orange Hawkweed Spotted Knapweed

Mowing, broad scale selective herbicide treatment in year one, followed by spot treatments of re-emerging plants in subsequent years.

Avoid treatments during burials/funeral processions. Post pesticide use notices at all entry points in advance and during treatment. Conduct public notifications for treatments occurring close to residences, hand out door to door notices to any affected citizens.

Parkland Terrace Size: 1.0ha Priority Rating: Moderate (Figure 5)

• Major intersection of Hwy 3 and Cedar Avenue

• Adjacent to Fairy Creek

• Natural area • Very low public use • Weed infestations

in open area adjacent to Hwy and riparian zone of Fairy Creek, as well as along Cedar Ave

Blueweed Spotted Knapweed Absinthe Wormwood Scentless Chamomile

Hand pulling or spot treatments of non-selective glyphosate herbicide on BW, SK, and WW within legislated riparian pesticide free zone. Mowing, broad scale selective herbicide treatment on areas outside pesticide free zone in year one, followed by spot treatments of re-emerging plants in subsequent years. Potential seeding of disturbed areas from mechanical or hand pulling treatments.

Post pesticide use notices during treatment. Establish a pesticide free zone around Fairy Creek.


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Figure 1 Annex Park Dyke


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Figure 2 Dogwood Park


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Figure 3 Fernie Aquatic Centre


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Figure 4 Fernie Cemetery


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Figure 5 Parkland Terrace


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2.7 Monitoring Monitoring is the repetitive compilation of data to measure changes over time. Successful invasive plant management programs are based on these regular inspections which provide the information required to decide whether treatments are necessary, the best timing of treatments, and how the treatments are working. Most invasive plants are persistent and difficult to control and monitoring for several years may be required to ensure control methods are appropriate. Monitoring can be applied for different purposes, such as recording measurements to track general changes in invasive plant distribution and abundance on a city-wide basis, and tracking of activities to measure the success of control and restoration activities at a specific site. Monitoring can be used to determine if an injury threshold has been exceeded, where environmental damage is occurring, and if action is required to reduce the level of injury. The injury threshold of a site should be predetermined based on environmental site factors; a percentage of weeds/vegetative cover limit can be used in determining if treatment is necessary. Site monitoring inspections should also be conducted prior to treatment to ensure controls are applied at the optimal time, as well as following the treatment to observe the response of the targeted weeds and surrounding vegetation. An adequate amount of time (generally within 14 days) following treatment should be sufficient, dependent upon ensuing weather conditions, to examine plant response.

2.4.1 Monitoring Methods Monitoring can be performed using two different methods, or a combination of both:

• Visual inspection • Quantitative sampling

Quantitative sampling may be applied in areas where results are required to be precise. This can include using a predetermined plot size and counting the actual number of weeds versus non-weeds to calculate a percentage of weed cover. It can also be used to determine treatment effectiveness, measuring plant response. Similarly, a general threshold may be appropriate for a larger site application, where there is more tolerance for results to be subjective; in this case, a visual site inspection can be done to provide an overall percentage of weed cover, documenting the average findings to represent the entire area. A combination of both of these methods can be used, depending on the accuracy of data that is required.

Monitoring record forms should include the following information:

• Date • Location • Species of vegetation • Stage of vegetative growth • Quantity of weeds present • Ground cover percentage • Treatment method recommended (if required) • Reason for treatment, if required • Desirable vegetation, if present

All recorded monitoring information gathered during inspections should be entered into a spreadsheet at the end of the season or integrated into a GIS program for easier tracking and identification of trends. The recommended action for the City of Fernie at this time is to first conduct more detailed visual inspections, by a qualified individual, of all identified areas at the beginning of the season, to obtain an accurate representation of damage levels at this time. These sites are already known to contain dense weed infestations and treatment has been deemed necessary. By documenting the actual injury level prior to treatment, it will provide a base for all monitoring activities in the future. In the interim, treatments can also be monitored by using visual inspections, recording detailed plant responsiveness. As noted in the 5 year plan, one of the goals is to assess the feasibility of implementing a more


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quantitative monitoring approach in the future, as determined by cost/benefit analysis. An additional goal is to establish a comprehensive site list of all city-owned property that are identified or may be suspected to have invasive plant infestations. Areas of significance (public parks, riparian areas) that do not contain invasive species should be documented as surveyed and observed to contain no invasive species. These areas should be inspected annually, especially if they are in close proximity to other infestations.

2.8 Evaluation Evaluation is an essential part of a pest management program, it helps managers to determine what methods worked well, what aspects may need improvement and can assess the long term costs and benefits of the program. Program success will be dependent upon the participation, support and accountability of managers and contractors directly involved with the implementation of a management plan. An annual evaluation should include:

• Review of the current years treatment and monitoring records to determine if the timing for treatments was optimal

• Review any limiting factors to treatments, such as proximity to residential areas, or sensitive habitat • Review any historical databases, monitoring reports and annual evaluations to determine trends • Producing an annual report including overall findings as well as specific aspects of the program that were

successful, and others that require improvement Once the evaluation is complete, the pest management plan should be adapted to optimize future program success. This may include trying different treatment methods, varying the timing of treatments, integrating more educational programs, and widening the scope to include more sites, etc. Communication between managers, contractors and other partners is also a key element to the evaluation process. All participants should have an understanding of their role in the program, for instance, managers should provide a realistic model of their ideal landscapes; this will enable the development and evolution of the program, using joint efforts to meet these goals and expectations.


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PART THREE - SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENTAL GUIDELINES DURING PESTICIDE USE When using pesticides, certified applicators and license holders must conform to specific guidelines that are set out by the Ministry of Environment. The applicator must be aware of pesticide use procedures required to protect human health and the environment and take precautions to prevent unprotected human exposure to pesticide. They must perform an inspection of a proposed treatment area to ensure that the applicable regulatory requirements and standards can be met in carrying out the pesticide use. Particular care must be taken when treating large areas, using hazardous chemicals, near bodies of water, or close to sensitive fish and wildlife habitat. Understanding the product is the key to appropriate application precautions including methods, treatment, and specific regulatory guidelines. Each herbicide is unique in respect to appropriate application precautions for both the applicators safety and the protection of the environment. The pesticides to be selected for use within the City of Fernie will be very low in toxicity, with low or non persistent characteristics.

3.1 Storage and Handling

• Pesticides must be stored and locked in a designated storage facility/compartment, and labeled in accordance with the Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS)

• Pouring or mixing pesticides is only done by certified applicators • While mixing the applicator must wear appropriate personal protective equipment • Applicators will follow proper spill procedures in the event of a spill • Provide an air gap between the water source, and the product when mixing • When emptying pesticide containers, they are to be drained into the designated spray unit or backpack for

30 seconds and triple rinsed. After each rinse the mixed material will be poured into the spray unit • Empty rinsed containers are to be punctured and disposed of at the landfill

3.2 Transportation

• Inspect containers for defects before transporting • Pesticides should not be transported in the passenger area of a vehicle, or along with food or persons in the

back of the truck • Pesticides shall be secured before transport • Any backpack or handheld sprayers are to be depressurized before securing and transporting in a vehicle or

storage compartment

3.3 Application

• Applicators will review the label prior application and ensure the appropriate personal protective equipment is worn

• Assistant applicators are to be in visual and hearing distance from the certified applicator during application • Wind speed should be less than 8km/hr • Temperature is not to exceed 28 degrees Celsius during application, or as specified on the product label • Do not mix or apply within 30m of domestic well or ponds used for domestic water supply • Most pesticides require a 10 m pesticide free zone around bodies of water and dry streams, with the

exception of selective application of Glyphosate, which may be applied for the purpose of invasive plant management between 1m and 10m above the high water mark. The pesticide free zone is to exclude direct application, drift, runoff or leachate. A buffer zone of 5m is required between the pesticide free zone and the treatment area while using a backpack sprayer or truck sprayer

• If not specified on the label herbicides should not be applied no closer than one meter out from the drip line of a tree


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• Non selective residual herbicides should not be applied closer than double the tree height from the base of the trunk

• Applicators applying a herbicide for the purpose of noxious weed or invasive plant management must apply the herbicide not more than 1.5 m from a targeted weed or plant

• Applicator must make reasonable efforts to identify sites where biological weed control organisms have been released and prevent harm to those organisms

• Select appropriate nozzle for the equipment, to reduce drift with larger droplet size • When using back/hose sprayers hold nozzle level and close to the ground while applying herbicides • The application equipment will be in good working order and is calibrated to conform to the application rates

on the pesticide label.

3.4 Posted Treatment Notices

• 550 cm squared in size • Constructed of water resistant material • Contain a cautionary symbol (such as a stop sign or raised hand) • Bold Letter printing “ NOTICE OF PESTICIDE USE” (see Appendix III) • Posted at every entrance to the site being treated • Information required for a written notice includes:

o A description of the area to be treated o Name of the targeted pest(s) o The Federal Pest Control Products Act registration number of the pesticide to be used and its active

ingredient o Proposed date and start time, and proposed alternate dates and times of the pesticide use o Name and licensee number, phone number at which the licensee or an employee can be reached for

more information about the proposed pesticide use o Precautions that should be taken to minimize exposure to a pesticide or it’s residues including a

statement that indicates the period following the use during which people should not enter the treated area (re entry period)

3.5 Spill Procedures

• Keep other people or animals away from the spill site • If further information is required for spill cleanup consult the product label or Ministry of Water, Land and Air

Protection or CANUTEC • If the spill is sufficiently small begin clean up procedures immediately • Put on adequate personal protective gear • Do not try to wash away spilled material • Provide a barrier to the spread of the pesticide consisting of soil, sawdust, or any absorbent material to soak

up the pesticide • Place waste material into a water proof container and treat as hazardous material • A larger spill can be cleaned up with a vac truck and contents will be disposed and rinsed at a landfill • Contact the nearest Ministry of Water, Land and Air Protection to report the spill for disposal information

3.6 Environmental Protection Strategies

• Ensure that domestic water sources, agricultural water sources and soil used for agricultural crop production are protected for their intended use

• Avoid the use of pesticide over vertebrate wildlife or domestic animals that are visible to the applicator • Prevent erosion of a stream bank


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• Prevent debris that would cause an unreasonable adverse effect from entering a stream • Maintain slope stability, particularly in areas with potential for landslides • Identify and mark pesticide free zones along waterways, etc during pre-treatment inspection • Ensure that equipment is calibrated and maintained regularly, to avoid leaks and contamination • Follow proper mixing and application rates specific to each chemical, to avoid damage to non-targeted

vegetation

3.7 Legislative Context The following list includes all legislation that governs activities related to pest management:

Table 5 Legislation Governing Pest Management Canada Federal Legislation British Columbia Provincial Legislation

Pest Control Products Act Integrated Pest Management Act

Fisheries Act Environmental Management Act

Migratory Birds Convention Act Transportation of Dangerous Goods Act

Food and Drugs Act Weed Control Act

Pesticide Residue Compensation Act Wildlife Act

Plant Protection Act Workers’ Compensation Act


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PART FOUR - 5 YEAR PLAN GOALS

• Explore the potential of developing, in collaboration with applicable city departments, a comprehensive Integrated Pest Management Plan for the City of Fernie which will include all pests (plants, insects, animals, and disease).

• Managers and contractors directly responsible for administering this program will review all aspects of the program on an annual basis, in the off-season, highlighting factors that have contributed to program success, and aspects that may require improvements. Documented annual success of the program will provide justification for continued funding.

• Interpretive signs are planned to be installed in City parks in 2015. A goal is to take advantage of this

opportunity in educating the public by featuring information on these signs such as invasive plant identification, their impacts, and the importance of management.

• Integrate the invasive plant management program into the City Geographic Information System (GIS); this will

provide a consistent base for monitoring program success year to year.

• The operating plan will target six main areas each year (to utilize the annual budget of $6000). Once weed populations begin to decrease, treatment time will also decrease, thus allowing more time to be spent on other areas.

• All City-owned property will be surveyed for invasive plants by 2019. This survey will be planned and

initially stem from the original mapped areas of infestation, and continue to immediately adjacent areas, and connecting areas through pathway systems. A documentation system of all areas will be implemented, with new infestations being added to the treatment list.

• Examine the feasibility of implementing a quantitative monitoring program which will include specific sampling

procedures for monitoring for all existing sites annually.

• Develop an initial reporting program for public works and other field staff, and potentially expand this program to enable residents/trail users/organizations to report weed sightings.

• Review and enforcement of Bylaw No. 1587 requiring property owners to control and remove noxious and

invasive plants on their properties, with associated fines for non-compliance.


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GLOSSARY Glyphosate: is a non-selective, systemic herbicide used to kill weeds, especially annual broadleaf weeds and grasses. Injury Threshold: refers to the point where a pest population will cause an unacceptable impact on: public safety, recreation, or health; natural and/or managed ecosystems; aesthetic values; economic injury to desirable plants; or the integrity, function, or service life of facilities. Integrated Pest Management (IPM): As defined in the Integrated Pest Management Act, “a process for managing pest populations that includes the following elements:

• planning and managing ecosystems to prevent organisms from becoming pests; • identifying pest problems and potential pest problems; • monitoring populations of pests and beneficial organisms, damage caused by pests, and environmental

conditions; • using injury thresholds in making treatment decisions; • suppressing pest populations to acceptable levels using strategies based on considerations of biological,

physical, cultural, mechanical, behavioral and chemical controls in appropriate combinations, and environmental and human health protection;

• evaluating the effectiveness of pest management treatments." Integrated Pest Management Program: is an approach that uses a combination of techniques in an organized program to suppress pests effectively, economically, and in an environmentally sound manner using integrated pest management principles. The IPM program is implemented through a series of landscape or site specific plans that describe the methods of handling, preparing, mixing, applying and otherwise using pesticides and pest management methods within that program. Invasive plant: is any non-native plant species that has the potential to pose undesirable or detrimental impacts on humans, animals or ecosystems. Invasive plants have the capacity to establish quickly and easily, especially on disturbed sites, and can cause widespread negative economic, social, and environmental impacts. Noxious weed: are typically non-native plants that have been introduced to British Columbia without the insect predators and plant pathogens that help keep them in check in their native habitats. For this reason and because of their aggressive growth, these alien plants can be highly destructive, competitive and difficult to control. Pesticide: a micro-organism or material that is represented is sold or used or intended to be used to prevent, destroy, repel or mitigate a pest, including:

• Herbicides that are a plant growth regulator, plant defoliator, or plant desiccant; • A control product as defined in the Pest Control Products Act (Canada); • A substance that is classified as a pesticide by the Integrated Pest Management Act

Pesticide Free Zone (PFZ): is an area of land that must not be treated with pesticide and must be protected from pesticide moving onto it. Applicators must ensure a minimum of 10 meters, measured from the high water mark along all bodies of water, as legislated by the Ministry of Environment. Selective application: is the application of a pesticide to individual plants so that the vegetation between individual plants is not treated.


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REFERENCES East Kootenay Invasive Plant Council 2013-2018 Regional Strategic Plan Invasive Species Council of British Columbia – Outreach Materials http://www.bcinvasives.ca/resources/outreach-materials British Columbia Ministry of Forest and Range Website http://www.for.gov.bc.ca/hra/plants/index.htm Guide to Weeds in British Columbia 2002 Industrial Vegetation and Noxious Weed Control Pesticide Applicator Certification Guide 2011 Ministry of Environment Canadian Pesticide Education Program Applicator Core Manual 2011 Ministry of Environment Integrated Pest Management Manual for Landscape Pests in British Columbia 2009 Ministry of Environment City of Coquitlam Invasive Plant Management Strategy 2008 Raincoast Applied Ecology Southern Interior Weed Management Committee Website http://www.siwmc.ca/invasiveplantsofbc.htm Invasive Plant Pest Management Program for the Southern Interior of British Columbia 2010 Range Branch, Ministry of Forests and Range City of Calgary Integrated Pest Management Plan 1998 Reichardt, Todd - City of Calgary Field Guide to Noxious and Other Selected Weeds of British Columbia Fourth Edition, 2002, prepared by Roy Cranston and David Ralph, B.C. Ministry of Agriculture

http://www.bcinvasives.ca/resources/outreach-materials�

http://www.for.gov.bc.ca/hra/plants/index.htm�

http://www.siwmc.ca/invasiveplantsofbc.htm�


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APPENDIX I HERBICIDE SELECTION CHART

Herbicide Trade Name

Active Ingredient PCP # Application

Rate/Ha Weeds Treated

Treatment Information

Milestone Aminopyralid 28137 0.25 - 0.5 L Canada Thistle Common Tansy Knapweed Scentless Chamomile Absinthe wormwood

Post emergence, selective, broadleaf herbicide, provides short term residual control for 2 years.

Lontrel 360 Clopyralid 23545 0.42 - 0.83L Canada Thistle Scentless Chamomile Perennial Sowthistle Ox-eye Daisy Spotted Knapweed Diffuse Knapweed

Post emergence, selective, broadleaf herbicide for use on medium to fine textured soils. Little to no residual. No impact on woody vegetation.

Clearview

Aminopyralid & Metsulfuron-

methyl

29752 125 – 230 grams

Canada Thistle Field Scabious Ox-eye Daisy Plumeless Thistle Russian Thistle Scentless Camomile Spotted Knapweed Wild Mustard

Selective broadleaf weed control in right-of-way, industrial and other non-crop areas.

Tordon 22K

Picloram 9005 2.25 – 4.5L Scentless Chamomile Diffuse Knapweed Spotted Knapweed Perennial Sowthistle Canada Thistle Russian Knapweed Leafy Spurge Dalmatian Toadflax Yellow Toadflax

Selective broadleaf weed control on medium to fine soils. Avoid trees and coarse textured soils due to residual factor of 3-7 years. Not for commercial and residential-zoned use.

2,4-D Amine 600

Dimethyl Amine 14726 0.7 - 4.5L Burdock Bull Thistle Canada Thistle Hoary Cress Leafy Spurge

Post emergence broadleaf control, restricted use on MOTI lands.

Round-Up, Vantage

Glyphosate 13644 1.5 – 2.5% Solution

Annual grasses and all perennial weeds and brush

Post emergence, non-selective control, used for spot applications.

APPENDIX II CITY OF FERNIE INVASIVE PLANT TREATMENT RECORD


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APPENDIX III PESTICIDE USE NOTICE


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APPENDIX IV INVASIVE PLANT SPECIES IDENTIFICATION AND CONTROL GUIDE Spotted Knapweed (Centaurea maculosa)

Provincial Noxious Weed Biennial to short-lived tap rooted perennial with branched stems growing to 1.5 meters in height; deeply cut hairy leaves; very bitter to taste; purple, occasionally white flowers; flowerhead bracts with black-tipped fringe giving head a "spotted" appearance. Management:

Cutting, mowing or pulling before the plant sets seed can be effective on small infestations. The entire root system should be removed so that the plant will not re-sprout from the crown or remaining roots. Aminopyralid, picloram, a mixture of picloram and 2,4-D, 2,4-D alone, clopyralid and glyphosate are effective in controlling spotted knapweed. Herbicides should be applied before the mature plants set seed for maximum effectiveness. There are many biological control agents for managing knapweed.

Blueweed (Echium vulgare)

Regional Noxious Weed Biennial to short-lived tap rooted perennial growing to 1 meter high; stems covered in stiff hairs with swollen reddish to black bases where attached to stem. Invades rangelands, pastures, roadsides and idle areas particularly on coarse, sandy to gravelly soils. Produces 500 to 2,000 seeds per plant. Management:

Hand-pulling may be an effective control for small infestations; while cutting larger infestations will decrease seed production. Due to the ability to re-sprout, multiple treatments will likely be required to deplete root reserves to the point where flowering and seed production are improbable. Glyphosate can be used for short-term control in non-vegetated areas, but is not recommended for use in areas where desirable perennial vegetation occurs. Picloram provides long term, residual control. Recent studies indicate that the addition of surfactants improves herbicide effectiveness, and fall treatments are more effective than spring treatments. Clopyralid is effective at high rates and is recommended for use under or near conifers. Recent trials of metsulfuron-methyl fall treatments have proven to be quite effective.


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Orange Hawkweed (Hieracium aurantiacum)

Regional Noxious Weed

Fibrous-rooted perennial with milky juice and above ground runners grows 30 to 60 cm tall; leaves mostly basal; leafless flowering stalk covered with stiff, black, glandular hairs; vibrant orange-red flowers. Management:

Hand-pulling small infestations can be effective if the roots and stolons are not scattered. Mowing can prevent seed production but will encourage vegetative reproduction. Picloram, clopyralid, aminopyralid, or picloram/2,4-D mix provide good control when applied to actively growing plants in spring and early summer. There are currently no biological control agents available for orange hawkweed. Burdock (Arctium species)

Regional Noxious Weed Biennial weeds common in farmyards, fence lines, roadsides, stream banks and idle areas well known for their rounded flower heads with hooked spines that easily attach to clothing and animals. Common burdock (Arctium minus) grows 1 to 3 meters in height; lower leaf stalks are hollow; flower heads are less than 2.5 cm across and scattered along the stems. Management:

Mowing after the plant has bolted but before it has flowered can be used to eliminate seed production. Aminopyralid,,2,4-D, picloram and glyphosate are effective when applied to first-year rosettes. There are currently no biological control agents available for common burdock control.

Canada Thistle (Cirsium arvense)


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Provincial Noxious Weed Creeping rooted perennial growing erect to 1.2 meters; stalkless dark green leaves with irregular spiny lobes; flower heads spineless and small compared to other thistles; flowers variable in colour from rose-purple to pink to white. Management:

Repeated mowing can be effective in reducing seed set. Intensive cultivation aimed at depleting food reserves in the roots, followed by competitive cropping, is effective in the long term. Spring and autumn applications of clopyralid, aminopyralid, or a dicamba/2,4-D tank mix have been effective when the roots are actively growing. Spring applications of aminopyralid or picloram have also been effective when the Canada thistle is in the pre-bud to early bud growth stages. Six biological control agents are available for Canada thistle control.

Common Tansy (Tanacetum vulgare)

Regional Noxious Weed Aromatic perennial growing to 1.8 meters tall; deeply divided dark green leaves; yellow "button" flowers in cluster at top of plant; no ray flowers. Management:

Common tansy cannot be controlled with single mowing events (e.g. once-a-year), as the plants will respond with an increase in vegetative growth. Mowing sites very low to the ground before July can prevent seed production. Combined mowing and subsequent herbicide treatment of re-growth appears to be an effective control method. Treatments must be repeated over several years. Hand pulling may be used in areas where mowing and herbicide application are not feasible. Gloves and other protective clothing should be worn to prevent skin irritation. The following herbicides provide effective control for common tansy: picloram, picloram/2,4 D, metsulfuron methyl, and aminopyralid. There are currently no biological control agents available for Common Tansy.

Scentless Chamomile (Matricaria maritima)

http://www.co.olmsted.mn.us/�


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Provincial Noxious Weed

Annual to short-lived perennial; white daisy-like flowers 2 to 3 cm across; grows from 15 cm to over 1 meter in height; fern-like, very finely divided leaves. The whole plant is virtually odorless (scentless) when crushed. Can produce 10,000 to 200,000 seeds per plant. Management:

Mowing can be used to reduce seed production in pastures, hayfields, and non-crop areas, and should be done early and often before flowers are formed. Each successive mowing should be lower than the previous one, as plants will form new flowers in the leaf axils below mowing height. Frequent shallow tillage can be used to control seedlings if done during hot, dry weather and before plants flower. Hand pulling small infestations before they go to seed can prevent new

infestations from developing. Bury or dispose of plant material in a landfill. Biological control agents consisting of a seed-head weevil, a stem-boring weevil and adult gall midge have been released in northeastern BC. Effective herbicides include picloram, aminopyralid, metsulfuron methyl, dicamba, 2,4-D, and MCPP. Herbicide applications are most effective early in the season before flowering, but can be done throughout the season as long as plants are green and actively growing. Non-selective herbicides containing glyphosate are not recommended, as all vegetation on site will be killed, leaving no competition for new, emerging scentless chamomile plants. Japanese knotweed (Fallopia japonica)

Rhizomatous, semi-woody, herbaceous perennial in the Buckwheat Family that grows to 3 metres in height; "bamboo-like" stems are green to reddish brown and spotted; leaves are egg-shaped, stalked, 10 to 15 cm long, flattened or rounded at the base with a pointed tip and are dark green above and lighter green below; greenish to creamy-white flowers are produced in clusters from the leaf axils. An escaped ornamental originating from eastern Asia, Japanese knotweed forms aggressive, dense thickets maintained by extensive and deep, creeping rhizomes. New shoots are known to penetrate thick asphalt.

Management:

Mowing and cutting may be effective if done close to the ground. Repeat this treatment for at least 5 years to exhaust root reserves. Mechanically controlled areas should be monitored throughout the growing season to ensure new infestations do not develop from root fragments. All cut plant parts should be incinerated or undergo deep burial at landfill. Care should be taken to ensure that plant parts are not distributed during transport. There are no biocontrol agents available for the control of invasive knotweed species. Effective herbicides include: imazapyr, glyphosate and triclopyr. Stem injections/cut surface treatments are most effective in the summer or

fall, while foliar applications are most effective at the late bud stage.

Flat Peavine (Lathyrus sylvestris) Flat Peavine, now found throughout many parts of North America, is originally a native plant of Europe, North Africa and the Middle East. It has recently been found in the East Kootenays in isolated occurrences. Its invasiveness results from multiple methods of reproduction including seeds, rhizomes and ramets (self- clones), that allow it to quickly take over a surrounding area. It has the ability to climb 46 to 76 cm


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without support and up to 2.m+ with support, as well as its tendency to form a dense tendril entangled blanket that chokes out underlying native vegetation. As a result, Flat Peavine lowers plant biodiversity and forms dense impassable thickets that block hiking trails and wildlife pathways while increasing fire risks. Most importantly, however, Flat Peavine lessens native food sources for wildlife and livestock, leaving in its place a poisonous alternative. The negative economic impact affects the raising of livestock, hunting opportunities and other recreational opportunities. Management:

Flat Peavine is most successfully controlled using herbicides including clopyralid or aminopyralid. Plants respond quickly to herbicide treatments and can be destroyed after one treatment. While hand pulling and digging could be attempted in a small area such as a home garden, the necessity of removing all the rhizomes make eradication very difficult and annual monitoring and removal is required.

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Pest Management Program - Fernie