SAANICH'S PESTICIDE FREE PLEDGE

In April 2008, Council endorsed a resolution on the Pesticide Free Pledge for the grounds of Saanich Municipal Hall, Recreation Centres and Boulevard Floral Displays. Effective June 1, 2008, during Environment Week, we implemented this direction.   Check out our 21 Pesticide Free Sites.

The remainder of our Parks will continue to be managed following the Integrated Pest Management Plan (IPM). Since 1994, we have successfully reduced our use of synthetic pesticides by 95%. We do not use pesticide for cosmetic or non-essential reasons. Non-essential use means the use of pest control products without first giving preference to available non-pesticide alternatives of by following IPM.

We have also been asked by Council to consider extending the Pledge to all municipal lands, which would involve reviewing the Integrated Pest Management Policy. Staff were also directed to begin the process of drafting a bylaw addressing non-essential pesticide use, allowing sufficient time for consultation before implementation. These two initiatives will be priorities for both Saanich Parks & Recreation and Planning/Environmental Services for 2009.

For more information on the Integrated Pest Management Program click here.