Kamloops, British Columbia Pesticide Use Advisory Committee
Type: Policy
Status: Established in March 2006
Source File: http://www.kamloops.ca/ipm/committee.shtml
Description:
In March 2006, the City formed a pesticide use committee to research pesticide by-laws and alternatives to pesticide control using chemicals. The objective of the committee is to provide recommendations to Council on future direction the City may take with regards to pesticide use. The committee represents various groups and agencies within the community.
Pesticide Reduction
The City of Kamloops has taken the initiative and is proving to be a leader in Integrated Pest Management (IPM). In the last ten years, the City has reduced pesticide use by an average of 58%! Part of this reduction has been the elimination of pesticide use in our Tot Lots for more than 10 years and a very progressive turf management program.
In 2001, a citywide Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Master Plan was adopted for Kamloops. The Master Plan lays out a strategy for responsible pest management in public and private green spaces. The plan focuses on two major areas:
- IPM Leadership within the Parks Division
- IPM Public Education
Integrated pest management (IPM) is a decision making process that involves a balanced approach to managing weed, insect and other pest problems. By using monitoring along with cultural, biological, physical methods, pesticide usage can be reduced and pests managed sustainably. It is important to develop an IPM program because relying solely on pesticides can lead to resistance of pest species, pest resurgence, secondary pest outbreaks, residues as well as environmental and health hazards.