BioForest Technologies Inc has finalized its report on the results of the 2003 aerial spray program against the Eastern Spruce Budworm. Council received the final report at its regular November meeting.

The following are the major summary conclusions in the report:

• A 310 hectare block was sprayed with two applications of Foray 48B on June 3 and June 10,2003
• Weather and operational delays “undoubtedly resulted in additional defoliation to the host white spruce”. Pre-spray defoliation of new growth had already reached 26% before spraying was done.
• Spray deposit results were typical of operational spray programs conducted by Saskatchewan Environment. Due to wind conditions, spray deposits were less even during the first spray when compared to the second spray. No spray deposits were evident in plots immediately outside the spray block.
• Spruce budworm mortality was accelerated in the spray block. Sampling done three days after the first spray showed that 57% of the larvae in the spray block were either dead or moribund compared to 35% in the unsprayed control block.
• White spruce defoliation rates were significantly lower in the spray block (64%) as compared to the unsprayed control blocks (81%).
• The 64% defoliation rate after the first year of spraying is comparable to provincial program results after one year. (56% in block 204 in 2002 and 60% in 2001 in the Amisk area. The target rate is 40% after two years.

Based on these results, it is expected that the spraying program will continue in 2004. Plans for the spring, 2004 spray program are now being developed.

Council has requested that Parks Canada consider two additional issues in preparation for the 2004 spray program: first, the timing decisions on the spray program are to be based solely on weather conditions and larvae development. Operations delays in 2003 resulted in unnecessary defoliation and these delays should be avoided in 2004.

Second, Foray 76B has now been approved by Health Canada for residential use. Foray 76B is used in the provincial program so there are significant advantages to be had by incorporating this product in the Waskesiu program. Council has requested Parks Canada to pursue this avenue.

The job is not yet completed but the results are encouraging. Over 300 donors have contributed more than $55,000 to this effort. More donations are required. As stated before, Council is requesting a minimum donation of $150 per residence in support of this program. To all donors and future donors, Council extends its sincere appreciation.