Save Hemlock Ravine Park

Nestled in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Hemlock Ravine Park is a cherished space, home to unique ecosystems sustained by Eastern Hemlock trees. Unfortunately, these trees are under threat from the invasive Hemlock Woolly Adelgid (HWA), a small insect that could drastically alter the park we know and love. Join us in safeguarding the park's future, preserving its natural beauty and ecological balance for both the community and the wildlife that call it home.

The Hemlock Woolly Adelgid (HWA), scientifically known as Adelges tsugae, is an aphid-like insect that aggressively targets and eventually kills hemlock trees. Native to Asia, this invasive species was first reported in Virginia, USA, in 1951. It has since spread to various regions along eastern North America, including Southern Nova Scotia in 2017 and the town of Bedford, Nova Scotia in August 2023. HWA is characterized by its egg sacs resembling cotton balls or clumps of snow, which can be found at the base of needles on infested trees. It possesses a rapid reproduction rate, with females capable of laying between 50 and 175 eggs in one season, resulting in exponential population growth if unchecked. HWA is primarily transported through wind, animal activity, and human movement involving nursery stock, logs, and other wood products. Infestations lead to significant tree death, drastically altering forests and threatening the existence of hemlock species in many locations. Immediate and concerted action is vital to curb the spread and prevent further devastation.

The uncontrolled spread of HWA threatens the health and survival of Hemlock Ravine Park. We must act collectively to curb the impact of this invasive species and preserve the park's ecosystem for future sustainability.

Here's how you can be a part of this crucial mission:

• Report Sightings: Be vigilant and report any sightings of HWA to the Canadian Food Inspection Agency. You can notify them via email at Ron.Neville@Canada.ca or through their official website: Canadian Food Inspection Agency.

• Voice Your Concerns: Reach out to the HRM Councillor for District 10, Kathryn Morse, to express your concerns and inquire about the steps being taken in your locality to control the spread of HWA at Hemlock Ravine Park. You can write to her at kathryn.morse@halifax.ca or call at 902.497.7278.

• Become a Citizen Scientist: Contribute to the community science initiative by submitting your observations of HWA and healthy hemlock trees to iNaturalist. Join the 'Healthy Hemlock Forests of the Maritimes' project to play an active role in the preservation efforts. Your submissions will be instrumental in building a comprehensive database that will guide effective intervention strategies.

• Future Volunteer Opportunities: If HRM decides to incorporate volunteers in their hemlock treatment plans we will post any news and updates both on our page and in our Facebook group.

• Learn More: For more information regarding the fight against HWA, including treating your own trees, please see our Resources page and join the conversation on our Facebook group.