Prince Albert National Park April 7th 2004

Spruce budworm populations are increasing in Saskatchewan because of natural cycles and environmental conditions. This native insect defoliates living spruce trees, limits annual growth, weakens the ability of mature trees to fight disease, and may directly or indirectly cause trees to die.

Without interventions, approximately 35 per cent of the spruce trees in Waskesiu may die and 60 per cent may be affected (e.g. the tree tops may die). Effective intervention could extend the lifespan of these trees.

With significant input from the public, Prince Albert National Park (PANP) sprayed Foray 48B in order to control spruce budworm and protect over 40,000 trees within the community in 2003. PANP is planning to spray again in June 2004.

The pesticide, Foray 48B contains the active ingredient Bacillus thuringiensis, kurstaki (BtK), a naturally occurring soil bacteria. Foray 48B is registered for use in Canada by Health Canada for aerial application in residential areas. Regulatory authorities in Canada, the United States and at the World Health Organization agree that BtK can be used safely in residential areas. BtK is also used directly on organically grown food crops, and has been used safely throughout the world for over 30 years. Although BtK is known to kill moths and butterflies, it does not affect other animals, plants, soils or drinking water.

A thorough environmental assessment into the health and environmental impacts of spraying was conducted in 2003 and concluded that were are no significant, immitigable, adverse impacts. Spraying for spruce budworm is consistent with Parks Canada policy, which allows for interventions such as this in a community.

Foray 48B will be applied twice (2-5 days apart) from a fixed-wing aircraft, flown over the community of Waskesiu, most likely in the early morning. The spray window is currently estimated to be June 12 – 25, 2004. Exact dates of spray depend on larval development, spruce bud development and weather conditions. More details will be made available. A public notice will be issued 24 hours prior to both spray applications. Should weather conditions be unfavourable, each subsequent day will be considered until spraying occurs. The second intended spray date will occur 2-5 days following the first. Public notices will be posted in the community. Once the spray is complete, public notices indicating completion will be posted in the community and circulated to the media.