In 2016, the Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) devastated the forest area in Stittsville’s Ladybird Park (on Sirocco Crescent) with all of the Ash trees removed. In October, depending on weather conditions, City workers will be at the park woodlot to plant tree saplings and remove invasive plants to rehabilitate the forest. Some of the species of trees that may be planted are: red, sugar, and silver maple; bitternut hickory; blue-beech; burr and red oak; poplar species; white pine; white spruce; hemlock; larch; and dogwood.
The Emerald Ash Borer is a non-native, highly destructive wood-boring beetle that feeds under the bark of ash trees. All species of ash are susceptible to attack, except mountain ash, which is not a true ash species. Since it was first identified in Michigan in 2002, EAB has killed millions of ash trees in Ontario and many parts of the United States. It poses a major economic and environmental threat to urban and forested areas. It was confirmed in Ottawa in 2008 and its impacts can be clearly seen spreading from the St. Laurent area. Since the insect spends most of its lifecycle under the bark of trees, it can be easily moved with firewood or other tree materials such as nursery stock, logs, brush and larger wood chips. This insect is able to fly, but since its spread has been primarily along major highways and transport routes, it is clear that humans are the main vector of dispersal. To learn more about the City’s Emerald Ash Borer visit this link.
During the rehabilitation work, invasive plants will be removed that will allow the trees currently on site and the newly planted trees to thrive. Trails may be temporarily closed to the public and signs posted while the treatment of provincially regulated pesticides are used on the invasive species. Signs will indicate the areas closed to the public and will also inform of pesticide use, times of the treatment and contact. Accumulated brush will be removed from the park when the rehabilitation work has been completed. The public is asked not the use the park or pathways where the signs are posted.
Questions or concerns about the rehabilitation of the woodlot work can be sent to Amanda Mitchell at amanda.mitchell@ottawa.ca or Adam Palmer at adam.palmer@ottawa.ca or call 311.