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HomeMy WebLinkAboutThe Times Advocate, 2005-03-09, Page 31Wednesday, March 9, 2005 Exeter Times -Advocate 31 Hickory bark beetle attacking local woodlots The hickory bark beetle, shown here, is destroying woodlots in the Lucan area. (photo submitted) By Stephanie Mandziuk TIMES -ADVOCATE STAFF EXETER — The emer- ald ash borer has been getting quite a bit of pub- licity because of its abili- ty to attack and kill healthy ash trees as wit- nessed in the Windsor and Chatham areas in the last couple of years. London is bracing itself for the insect's inevitable arrival with a $3 -million contingency plan in place. What about Huron County? "We should be con- cerned but we should not lose sleep over it," says Kathy Hodgins with the Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority. "Measures are being taken to slow down its spread and they appear to be working. Natural predators have devel- oped a taste for it and that's good." Hodgins says humans still remain the biggest threat by transporting firewood and taking the insect along for the ride, thereby introducing the Asian beetle to areas where it shouldn't be. Currently, Essex and Chatham Kent remain under quarantine. It's illegal to transport fire- wood out of the area. If caught you could face jail time and fines. There's another con- cern, people purchasing uncertified, live land- scape stock like trees, shrubs and perennials. Hodgins says everyone should deal with a rep- utable garden centre selling certified stock, free of disease and pests. Hodgins warns, "emer- ald ash is acting like the canary in the coal mine. People need to wake up and take responsibility for their actions." In Huron County, one insect is raising more than a few eyebrows, the hickory bark beetle. Hodgins says, "the native pest has as much potential to cause devas- The hickory bark beetle bores its way into a hickory tree's tissue, cutting off its circulato- ry system. (photo submitted) tation to hickory trees, like the emerald ash has done to ash trees." The hickory bark beetle usually cycles and then crashes. It peaked in 2001 but still hasn't crashed. The experts really don't know why. Hodgins offers this com- mon theory, "Hickory trees like to have wet feet and grow in wetter soil. We've had a lot of drought over the past 8- 10 years. Trees are run- down, making them more susceptible to the beetle." The hickory bark beetle bores under the living tissue of the tree (beneath the bark) and cuts off the tree's circula- tory system. It attacks the tree from the top, down. One of the first signs of infestation is more sunshine than usual in a woodlot. In Southern Ontario the Lucan area is the epicen- tre for the hickory bark beetle. In 2001 woodlots covering 127 hectares were attacked with more than 70 per cent of hick- ory trees destroyed. The insect's movement has escalated dramatically and in 2004 the beetle attacked 2,133 hectares. Hodgins says the Ministry of Natural Resources believes it isn't practical to try to control the hickory beetle in woodlots. She adds, using chemicals on a large scale would be irre- sponsible with far-reach- ing effects. The agency is hoping for a very cold winter next year and a few nor- mal years of precipitation to get the trees healthy again. Natural predators like woodpeckers and parasites are also doing their share to deal with the pest. For more information about the emerald ash borer and the hickory bark beetle check out the conservation authority's Web site: www.abca.on.ca. Happy and healthy family travel Staying in shape while helping others It's that time of year when we are all feeling the need to pack up the kids for a much-needed family vacation. While you are busy making all of the appropriate arrangements—booking hotels, flights or mapping out your road trip—don't forget to include steps and precautions for keeping your family healthy and happy while away from the comforts of home. Vacation memories should be filled with laughter, fun and relaxation, not illness or discomfort. Before departing on your next family vacation, here are some sim- ple tips from Dr. Iris Greenwald, family physician and mother, to ensure happy travels are ahead for you and your loved ones. Information at your fingertips Be sure to have updated health insurance information with you and know how to contact your insurance company in case of an emergency. If possible, have your pediatrician recommend a doctor or facility near your vacation spot. Rest and recharge Adequate sleep is important for keeping kids healthy away from home, so allow for lots of rest during your adventures. Also, try within reason to keep your schedule in tune with your children's eat- ing, sleeping and bathroom habits. The right equipment A first aid kit is essential to have on hand for treating minor injuries and ail- ments on your journey. Key items to include: bandages, antibiotic cream, chil- dren's aspirin and/or acetaminophen, safety pins, thermometer, insect repel- lent, instant ice pack and over-the- counter medications for diarrhea, colds, motion sickness, etc. And don't forget the sunscreen to protect you and your family from harmful UV rays. Clean hands on the go One of the easiest ways to prevent ill- ness or infection when venturing to new destinations is to ensure you and your children are washing your hands regular- ly and always before meals. Carry a trav- el -size instant hand sanitizer to cover times when soap and water are not avail- able, to keep hands germ -free and reduce the chances of someone in your family getting sick. Booster up Be certain you and your children have all of the necessary immunizations and boost- er shots before you leave. Fun factor Remember to pack your child's favourite toys and comfort items. Car or plane games are a must for keeping children happy and occu- pied during travel. Try cut- ting out interesting pictures from a maga- zine in advance and allow your child to make up a story that goes with a certain picture. Pack new colouring books or sto- ries related to travel or adventure. Family vacations can be some of the most wonderful memories that your chil- dren carry with them through adulthood. It's a great time to reconnect with your family while you take a break from your hectic schedules. Try to make them spe- cial and be sure to make them safe. Curves locations across Canada are collecting nonperishable items for their annual food drive during the week of March 7th. So far the Exeter location has more than 600 pounds of food. Lending their support are Joyce McDonald, Carrie Hohner, Curves Manager Cindy Reaburn (bottom left to right) and Claudia Martin, Betty Blue and Esther Mawson (top left to right). (photo/Stephanie Mandziuk)