June 2, 1999

To:Toronto Inter-Departmental Environment Team (TIE)

From:Joe Halstead, Commissioner of Economic Development, Culture and Tourism

Dr. Sheela V. Basrur, Medical Officer of Health

Barry Gutteridge, Commissioner of Works & Emergency Services

Subject:Toronto Inter-Departmental Environment Team (TIE) Pesticides Subcommittee: Status Report

Purpose:

To provide a progress report, setting out the status of the work of the Toronto Inter-Departmental Environment Team (TIE) Pesticides Subcommittee in assisting the Corporation of the City of Toronto to phase out its use of pesticides on public green spaces in 1999.

Source of Funds:

City Council has approved the 1999 Public Health budget submission request for $20,000 for a pesticides public education program. Funding for five new pieces of equipment, the "Aquacide" hot water weed control technology, is required from the Equipment Reserve for a total cost of $75,000.00. In order to successfully implement the Integrated Plant Health Care program, replacement equipment is needed. This includes over seeders, top dressers, aerators, de thatchers and mulching mowers. The cost of this replacement equipment is estimated at $400,000.00 and was included in our 1999 submission to purchase through the Equipment Reserve.

Recommendations:

It is recommended that:

1. The Toronto Inter-Departmental Environment Team (TIE) adopt this report;

2. The Toronto Inter-Departmental Environment Team (TIE) endorse the revisions to the phase-in plan outlined in this report to achieve an end to applying pesticides on public green space in 1999, except in emergency situations or other exceptions; and

3. The Toronto Inter-Departmental Environment Team (TIE) forward this report with the reports noted below as attachments to the Board of Health, the Works Committee, the Economic Development and Parks Committee, the Policy and Finance Committee for consideration, and to the Environmental Task Force (ETF) and the Works and Emergency Services Stormwater Group for information:

- "Toronto Inter-Departmental Environment Team (TIE) Pesticides Subcommittee: Terms of Reference" (Medical Officer of Health, February 15, 1999); and

- "A Phase-in Plan to Achieve an End to Applying Pesticides on Public Green Space in 1999, Except in Emergency Situations Or Other Exceptions" (Commissioner of Economic Development, Culture and Tourism, February 15, 1999).

Background:

At its meeting of December 16-17, 1998, City Council had before it Clause No. 1 contained in Report No. 14 of the Board of Health headed "Phasing Out Pesticide Use in the City of Toronto" (October 30, 1998). City Council adopted with amendments the recommendations of this report.

City Council adopted in principle the banning of pesticides on all City property and recommended:

1.that the Commissioner of Economic Development, Culture and Tourism, the Medical Officer of Health, and the Commissioner of Works and Emergency Services be requested to submit a report to the Board of Health, the Works and Utilities Committee, and the Economic Development Committee no later than February 1999, on a reasonable phase-in that would aim to achieve an end to applying pesticides on public green spaces in 1999, except in emergency situations or other exceptions to be outlined in a report by the Commissioner of Economic Development, Culture and Tourism.

2.that staff ensure that the phased-in ban include an improved and modified lawn care program to balance the effect of eliminating pesticides.

3.that the proposed Pesticide Subcommittee, as amended by Recommendation No. (2) of the Board of Health (see below), be convened to assist the Chief Administrative Officer and the Medical Officer of Health in the development of their report.

"Recommendation No. (2) of the Board of Health:

(a)establish a Pesticides Subcommittee, with representatives from the public, CUPE Local 416, relevant departments including personnel with demonstrated expertise in pesticide reduction, and businesses with demonstrated expertise in pesticide-free horticultural practices. This Pesticide Subcommittee will develop a Corporate policy and action plan for the reduction and phase out of pesticides used on City-owned lands; and

(b)implement the action plan by Spring 1999 and report to the Board of Health."

4. that funding for the proposed public education program be included for consideration in the 1999 budget, amending Recommendation No. (3) of the Board of Health:

"the Medical Officer of Health and the Toronto Inter-Departmental Environment Team (TIE)

(a)investigate the feasibility of regulating the use of pesticides on private property as is presently done in the City of Westmount, Quebec; and

(b)develop and implement, in collaboration with community organizations, a coordinated pesticide public education program to help residents reduce their exposures and assist them in making informed decisions about pesticide use and report to the Board of Health."

5.that the Commissioner of Works and Emergency Services be requested to develop a pilot project to engage the use of the various beneficial use products arising from the biosolids management initiatives from the Main Treatment Plant.

6. that the appropriate staff be requested to submit a report to the appropriate committee on a program similar to the Plant Health Care Program of the City of Waterloo that involves horticultural practices to lead to the near elimination of pesticide use on City of Toronto properties.

7. that the submission by Councillor Shiner, consisting of a report dated November 1996 which was before the former City of North York Environment Committee, entitled Pesticide Use/Alternatives to Pesticides - 1996, and detailed recommendations with respect thereto, be referred to the Chief Administrative Officer, the Toronto Inter-Departmental Environment Team, the Medical Officer of Health and any other staff reviewing pesticide use, to review in context with the final reports.

As follow-up to recommendation #3 from City Council, the Medical Officer of Health submitted a report, "Toronto Inter-Departmental Environment Team (TIE) Pesticides Subcommittee:

Terms of Reference" to TIE for its meeting (February 15, 1999). The report recommended that the Subcommittee include one representative of the ETF. On recommendation of ETF staff, TIE recommended that the ETF act in a consultative role and be kept informed rather than have representation on the Subcommittee. TIE also recommended the addition of a representative from the School Board (Board of Education), and the Works and Emergency Services Wastewater Group, respectively. Representatives from the Toronto District School Board, and the Works and Emergency Services Stormwater Group respectively have been added to the membership.

As follow-up to recommendation #1 from City Council, the Commissioner of Economic Development, Culture and Tourism submitted a report, "A Phase-in Plan to Achieve An End to Applying Pesticides on Public Green Space in 1999, Except in Emergency Situations Or Other Exceptions" to TIE for its meeting (February 15, 1999). TIE amended recommendation #6 of this report:

"That a copy of this report be sent to the Economic Development Committee, the Board of Health, and the Works and Utilities Committee."

to include the "Storm water Group and the Environmental Task Force" and suggested that these groups could provide any comments to the Pesticides Subcommittee.

TIE added an additional recommendation:

"Report be referred to Pesticide Subcommittee for consideration during its development of a corporate policy and action plan."

TIE members were in favour of referring the Parks and Recreation report to the Economic Development Committee, the Works and Utilities Committee, and the Board of Health.

Comments:

The TIE Pesticides Subcommittee was convened in March 1999 to assist the Corporation of the City of Toronto to phase out its use of pesticides on public green spaces in 1999 and beyond. The Subcommittee has met three times and reviewed the Subcommittee terms of reference proposed by the Medical Officer of Health in her report (February 15, 1999).

The Subcommittee is comprised of representatives of business, labour, school, and

non-governmental environmental groups who have a demonstrated ability and expertise to make significant contributions to the City's efforts to phase out its use of pesticides on public green spaces and demonstrated expertise and commitment to reduced pesticide use horticultural practices. The Subcommittee is chaired by senior management from Public Health and Parks and Recreation and is supported by participating staff from Parks and Recreation, Public Health, and Works and Emergency Services. Appendix A contains a list of Subcommittee members.

The Subcommittee shall dissolve and be disbanded by City Council upon successful completion of its mandate and submission of a final report to TIE and City Council.

A.A Phase-in Plan to Achieve An End to Applying Pesticides on Public Green Space in 1999, Except in Emergency Situations Or Other Exceptions

The Subcommittee has considered the phase-in plan proposed by the Commissioner of Economic Development, Culture and Tourism in his report (February 15, 1999) and the Scarlett Woods Golf Course Working Group report on pesticide reduction opportunities for Scarlett Woods and other City-owned golf courses (Appendix B).

The phase-in plan to achieve an end to applying pesticides on public green spaces except in emergency situations or other exceptions was developed by staff from the Parks and Recreation Division of Economic Development Culture and Tourism. The phase-in plan outlines specific program areas and strategies to reduce pesticide usage. A comprehensive Integrated Plant Health Care program is the key method employed to sustain a healthy parks and green space system by introducing new techniques and alternative maintenance practices to reduce reliance on pesticides.

Some of the former municipalities that comprise the new City of Toronto (i.e., North York, Metropolitan Toronto, City of Toronto) reduced pesticide usage from 75% - 90% of the levels used in the early 1990's. Data on pesticide use reductions were not available from East York, Scarborough, and Etobicoke. Further reductions are targeted for 1999 in specific program areas. These reductions are outlined in the report from Parks and Recreation, "A Phase-in Plan to Achieve An End to Applying Pesticides on Public Green Space in 1999, Except in Emergency Situations Or Other Exceptions" (Commissioner of Economic Development, Culture and Tourism, February 15, 1999).

The first three Subcommittee meetings showed high commitment and expertise from members. Much valuable advice was given. Based on this discussion and further staff assessment, the establishment of a comprehensive Integrated Plant Health Care program described in the Parks and Recreation report (February 15, 1999) report is being adjusted to include the following initiatives:

(i)Develop a list of authorized pesticides, identifying active ingredients and inert ingredients (where information is available), and categorizing pesticides by human health and environmental impacts (e.g., pesticides with greater potential for spills);

(ii)Investigate opportunities to further eliminate pesticide use, particularly those harmful to human health and the environment (e.g., smog precursors);

(iii)Investigate procurement procedures for purchase of pesticides to ensure that pesticide purchases comply with the list of authorized pesticides;

(iv)Develop procedural guidelines for pesticide usage;

(v)Conduct an inventory of all pesticides and where they are located;

(vi)Prior to approval for a pesticide application, alternative strategies must have been attempted and documented. Only licensed applicators will be allowed to apply pesticides;

(vii)Develop and implement a pesticide usage reporting system, including: documenting the type of pesticide requested, the target, the location, the applicator, the device, the supervisor's approval and the weather conditions;

(viii)Carry out a water quality monitoring program in partnership with Dr. John Struger, Ecosystem Health Division, Environment Canada. The purpose of the program is to determine the amount of pesticides (herbicides, fungicides and insecticides) that wash off during rainstorms into receiving waters. Water samples will be taken from rivers and creeks adjacent to Scarlett Woods Golf Course during dry periods to establish base line conditions and during rainfalls to determine runoff effects. Staff from Works and Emergency Services will obtain the samples and carry out analysis for basic chemistry and nutrients. The pesticide analysis will be carried out at the University of Guelph and the results sent to Dr. Struger. Other data required includes rainfall intensities and the details of recent pesticide applications at the golf course;

(ix)Review requirements and procedures for notification of pesticide use. Ensure that the proposed public education campaign addresses notification of pesticide use;

(x)As part of public education, promote a phone number at the City of Toronto to provide expert staff information about the Integrated Plant Health Care program and alternatives to chemical pesticide use;

(xi)Educate staff about alternative pest control methods and the components of the Integrated Plant Health Care program;

(xii)Develop a pesticide alternatives database;

(xiii)Establish pilot projects to test the effectiveness of alternative pest control techniques;

(xiv)Purchase and test equipment that uses alternatives to pesticides such as the "Aquacide" unit that utilizes super-heated water; and

(xv)Develop a plan for disposal of existing stocks of pesticides whose use is reduced.

B. Budgetary Implications of Phase-in Plan

1.Estimated Costs

An effective Integrated Plant Health Care program requires more intensive maintenance activities and cultural controls. In order to maintain plant vigour and increase resistance to pest populations, a scheduled program of aeration, dethatching, over seeding, top dressing and regular mowing is required. The current equipment inventory is aging and replacement units are needed to insure an Integrated Plant Health Care program can be sustained. An estimated sum of $400,000.00 for specific Integrated Plant Health Care equipment was identified and submitted to Central Fleet with our 1999 request for departmental equipment. In addition to this, five new "Aquacide" units, one for each district, are required to reduce our reliance on Roundup. The total cost of these units is $75,000.00.

Additional labour costs necessary to implement and sustain an Integrated Plant Health Care program will be incorporated into our new parks harmonized service delivery structure provided there are no further staff cuts. Changes in maintenance standards and policies will allow for the redeployment of labour to Integrated Plant Health Care activities. Any cost savings identified in the reduction of pesticide applications will assist in offsetting the increased cost of implementing the program.

Opportunities to decrease pesticide usage and lower maintenance costs by re-designing greenspace areas and introducing areas of naturalization will be investigated throughout 1999 and submitted for consideration in the capital budget for the year 2000. Projects will be identified such as irrigation systems, naturalized areas along roadways and pathway development, which reduce pesticide usage yet do not incur increased maintenance costs.

The implementation of the Integrated Plant Health Care program for 1999 will include an evaluation component which will assist in identifying costs associated with the program as well as its effectiveness.

2.Health and Environmental Benefits of Implementing an Integrated Plant Health Care Program

The implementation of an Integrated Plant Health Care program is an investment for the future of Toronto residents and for City green spaces. The health and environmental benefits of implementing such a program will likely outweigh expenditures associated with its implementation. An overview of the benefits of such a program is provided in Clause 1 contained in Report No. 14 of the Board of Health, "Phasing Out Pesticide Use in the City of Toronto" ( October 30, 1998) adopted by City Council at its meeting of December 16 -17, 1998.

By taking a leadership position in implementing an Integrated Plant Health Care program, the City can act as a model for homeowners, other commercial, industrial and governmental sectors to reduce and phase out pesticide use. For example, the implementation of pilot projects and increased naturalization of City green spaces will enable the City to showcase alternatives to chemical pesticides. Some of these plant health care methods are likely adaptable to home gardens and lawns and will be promoted through a pesticides public education program.

As the City publicizes its efforts to phase out pesticide use on public green spaces, the parks and other City green spaces will increasingly be viewed as one of the City's environmental assets. The City will be able to count as one of its assets, green space that does not rely on chemical pesticide use.

The Integrated Plant Health Care program is an example of the City's commitment to environmental sustainability. As with any policy or program that promotes environmental sustainability, it is difficult to quantify the net benefits of implementing an Integrated Plant Health Care program. It is reasonable, however, to expect both short-term and long-term benefits.

Principal short-term benefits include enhanced quality of life, particularly among children and individuals who have not been able to enjoy City parks and green spaces due to chemical sensitivity, and reduced likelihood of pesticide residue run-off into Toronto streams and Lake Ontario. The latter could also be considered a long-term benefit. Other long-term benefits include an overall reduction of the health and environmental risks associated with chemical pesticide use. This includes for example, reduced exposure of City staff (e.g., gardeners, recreation workers), citizens, and pets who use City green spaces to the potential adverse impacts of chemical pesticides.

Additional benefits include potential cost savings and community development opportunities through initiatives such as naturalization. For example, the United States Environmental Protection Agency (1998) publication, "A Source Book on Natural Landscaping for Public Officials" indicates that the combined costs of installation and maintenance for natural landscape over a ten year period may be one fifth of the costs for conventional landscape maintenance. The publication also identifies public parks as opportunities for public involvement in naturalization.

The benefits of an Integrated Plant Health Care program are likely to be demonstrated incrementally as Parks and Recreation continues to implement its program over the next several years. The year-end report of the TIE Pesticides Subcommittee will document the successes and lessons learned.

C.Evaluation

The proposed phase-in plan contains features such as the following that will enable the completion of an evaluation of the effectiveness of the implementation strategy:

(i)evaluation criteria for each program in which reduction targets have been specified;

(ii)a monitoring system, complete with documentation;

(iii)the development of a database to track pesticide use;

(iv)written records of a request for pesticide use;

(v)a water quality monitoring program carried out by Works and Emergency Services in partnership with Environment Canada to determine herbicide, fungicide and insecticide residues in receiving waters adjacent to the Scarlett Woods Golf Course; and

(vi)pilot projects for programs such as forestry.

The TIE Pesticides Subcommittee will include in its year-end report, an evaluation plan and the findings of the evaluation.

D.Communications/Public Education

City Council has approved the 1999 Public Health budget submission request for $20,000 for a pesticides public education program. Public education activities will focus initially on low-cost initiatives. For example, the Subcommittee will be exploring potential opportunities to promote pesticide-free horticultural practices through partnerships with existing programs such as City of Toronto-sponsored community gardens and pilot projects involving local elementary school gardens.

Staff resources from Public Health, Parks and Recreation Division, and Works and Emergency Services will be identified to develop and implement a communications strategy. The communications strategy will address among other issues, mechanisms for citizen participation. The strategy will also define types and methods of information sharing, such as the development of a TIE Pesticides Subcommittee site on the City of Toronto website.

Conclusions:

The TIE Pesticides Subcommittee was convened in March 1999 to assist the Corporation of the City of Toronto to phase out its use of pesticides on public green spaces in 1999 and beyond. The Subcommittee endorses the phase-in plan developed by the Parks and Recreation Division of Economic Development, Culture and Tourism to reduce pesticide use on public green spaces.

The Subcommittee will submit to TIE in January 2000, a report concerning the findings of the evaluation of the implementation strategy, a communications/public education strategy and a plan for further pesticide use reductions on public green spaces in year 2000.

Contacts:

Connie Clement, Director, Public Health Planning and Policy

Co-Chair, Toronto Inter-Departmental Environment Team (TIE) Pesticides Subcommittee

Toronto Community and Neighbourhood Services

Public Health Division

Tel: (416) 392-7463

Fax:(416) 392-7013

E-mail:cclement@toronto.ca

Claire Tucker-Reid, General Manager, Parks and Recreation

Co-Chair, Toronto Inter-Departmental Environment Team (TIE) Pesticides Subcommittee

Toronto Economic Development, Culture and Tourism

Parks and Recreation Division

Tel: (416) 397-4149

Fax:(416) 392-3315

E-mail:ctucker@mta1.metrodesk.metrotor.on.ca

Joe HalsteadDr. Sheela V. BasrurBarry Gutteridge

CommissionerMedical Officer of HealthCommissioner

Economic Development,Works and Emergency

Culture and TourismServices

Appendix A

Toronto Inter-Departmental Environment Team (TIE)

Pesticides Subcommittee Membership

Connie Clement, Director, Public Health Policy and Planning, Toronto Community and Neighbourhood Services, Toronto Public Health (Co-chair)

Claire Tucker-Reid, General Manager, Parks and Recreation, Toronto Economic Development, Culture and Tourism, Parks and Recreation Division (Co-chair)

Tony Di Giovanni, Executive Director, Landscape Ontario

John Green, Plant Manager, Toronto District School Board

John Hannah, President, Ontario Parks Association

John Hopkins, Works & Emergency Services Storm Water Group

Peter Leiss, Vice President, Toronto Civic Employees' Union Local 416, Canadian Union of Public Employees

Ian Lintott, Owner/President, The Green Brigade Inc.

Scott Martin, Director, Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary System of Canada

Janet May, Pesticide Campaign Director, Toronto Environmental Alliance

Cheryl Shour, President, Healthy Home Services Inc.

Staff:

Siu Fong, Research Consultant, Toronto Community and Neighborhood Services, Public Health Division

Doug McDonald, Operations Support Co-ordinator, Toronto Economic Development, Culture and Tourism, Parks & Recreation Division

Ted Bowering, Manager, Soil/Water Quality Improvement, Toronto Works & Emergency Services, Technical Services Division

Arthur Beauregard, Manager, Horticultural Services, Economic Development, Culture and Tourism, Parks & Recreation Division

Fred Hendriks, Environment Committee Co-ordinator, Works & Emergency Services, Technical Services Division

Appendix B

Scarlett Woods Golf Course Working Group

Report to Toronto Council on Pesticide Reduction Opportunities for Scarlett Woods and other City-Owned Golf Courses

Introduction:

Public concerns have been raised regarding the use of pesticides on golf courses owned and operated by Metro Parks and Culture. In response, on February 10, 1997, the Metro Environment and Public Space Committee requested the Acting Commissioner of Parks and Culture to work with environment and golf-related parties to examine strategies to reduce pesticide use at the Scarlett Woods Golf Course. Accreditation in the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program was also a goal. At the committee meeting of March 26, 1997, it was recommended that a working group be established to review the use of pesticides at the Scarlett Woods Golf Course, comprised of:

_Metropolitan Councillors from the area and

_Representatives from the following:

- Metro Parks and Culture;

- Metropolitan Toronto and Region Conservation Authority;

- Action to Restore a Clean Humber;

- Toronto Environmental Alliance;

- Parks Departments of the Cities of Etobicoke and York;

- Royal Canadian Golf Association;

- Canadian Golf Superintendents Association; and

- Crop Protection Institute (Urban Pest Management Council of Canada)

Additional representatives included Councillor Ila Bossons, Julia Langer from the World Wildlife Fund, and Harold Van Gool from Plant Products Co. Ltd.

The Working Group also invited Scott Martin, national co-ordinator of the Audubon Co-operative Sanctuary System of Canada and Paul Dermott, superintendent of Oakdale Golf and Country Club to speak about the Audubon program.

Scarlett Woods is a very popular and busy golf course with over 46,000 rounds of golf played in 1998. It was recognized that a balance needed to be found between changes in maintenance practices and the economic viability of the golf course.

The Mandate:

The mandate of the group had been to discuss options and develop recommendations to reduce the reliance on pesticides at Scarlett Woods Golf Course.

In concurrence with the spirit of Report no. 14 of the Board of Health, this Working Group submits the following report as a proposed plan for the management of the Scarlett Woods Golf Course and ultimately, all city-owned golf courses.

Public and Golfer Attitudes:

The Royal Canadian Golf Association conducted a golfer attitude survey in conjunction with the World Wildlife Fund and the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary System of Canada, during the 1998 golf season. The survey was distributed in two Canadian golf publications and in boxes of golf balls. A response rate of approximately 2% of the total distribution of 300,000 surveys provided a glimpse of the attitudes of over 5,000 Canadian golfers toward the relationship of golf with the environment.

The results of the survey were encouraging in that 96% of the respondents stated they enjoyed seeing and hearing wildlife during a game of golf and 90% would encourage golf courses where they play to increase naturalized areas for wildlife. However, almost half the respondents (49%) still prefer greens, tees and fairways to always be flawlessly green. Also, 46% of those enjoying wildlife during a game of golf preferred the golf course to be flawlessly green. This contradiction was further exposed when 41% of those who stated a concern for the amount of chemicals being used on golf courses also preferred the greens, tees and fairways to always be flawlessly green.

The survey results show the dilemma facing golf course managers who are still required to provide near-perfect, green playing surfaces to attract the golfing public. Golf courses are still rated on their appearance and level of manicuring. Educating the golfer to change their expectations will take time. However, public awareness projects can be conducted at city-held golf courses.

Recommendations:

Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program

The Working Group suggests that the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program (ACSP) for golf courses could act as an initial template for environmental improvements at Scarlett Woods and all the city-owned golf courses. The program is administered by the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary System of Canada Inc. (ACSSC) of Collingwood, Ontario. It combines ecologically sound land management and the conservation of natural resources. Golf courses work towards certificates of recognition in six categories. More than 100 facilities in the US and 14 in Canada, including seven in Ontario have received full certification by fulfilling requirements in all six categories. All five City of Toronto-owned golf courses are now registered in the Audubon program.

Recommendations and the Action Plan for Scarlett Woods are presented in the context of the six categories of the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program for golf courses.

10Environmental Planning

An environmental plan including a written policy and procedures is mandatory to ensure the success of an environmental improvement program. It also enables course staff to provide consistent, accurate answers to the public. The plan will include specific environmental enhancement projects and will establish protocols for determining if and when chemicals will be used. The protocols will be based on the latest scientific research with the ultimate goal of maintaining or improving the health of water resources, golfers, workers, neighbours and wildlife.

20Integrated Pest Management

Integrated pest management (IPM) programs were originally developed to improve insect, weed and disease management and reduce chemical use in field and horticultural crops. IPM will represent Integrated Plant Management at Scarlett Woods as the Working Group believes proper management of the whole plant ecology system will result in fewer chemicals being required.

Current Use of Pesticides:

Poa annua and creeping bentgrass are the closely mowed turfgrass species used on tees and greens. The low mowing height combined with wear stress predisposes the plants to diseases. Fungicides are required periodically throughout the season.

A breakdown of chemicals used from 1991-1997 include:

All products are fungicides for the control of disease. Fungi can develop resistance, therefore products must be varied through out the season. Phenyl mercuric acetate (PMAS) and thiram are no longer used at Scarlett Woods to control turf disease.

Unfortunately, the biggest factor determining fungicide requirements remains weather. Most pathogenic fungi are always present in the soil. They will only become active when the climatic conditions are correct and if the host plant is susceptible. Susceptibility can be reduced with proper plant species selection and stress reduction. However, some diseases will become active even with good management. This is when the "last resort" of chemical application is required.

Herbicide use is restricted as much as possible. From 1991 to 1996, 2,4-D, mecoprop, and dicamba, for control of broad leaf weeds were not used. A spot-spray was required in 1998 to control clover. Glyphosate is used to control weeds on hard surfaces such as the parking lot and curbs.

To continue the reduction of the use of pesticides at Scarlett Woods and all city-operated golf courses, the following measures will be implemented:

_Preventative measures to reduce plant stress will always be practiced to reduce susceptibility to pests and diseases.

_More precise irrigation control and fertilizer application will be used in consideration of disease and pest control.

_Annual soil testing for nutrient requirements will help to ensure plant health.

_Scouting for pests and diseases through visual inspection and climate data collection will be conducted. Computerized disease predictive software should be employed.

_Thresholds for disease and insect populations will be established for all known pests and treatment will begin only when these thresholds have been surpassed.

_Least toxic and most effective products will be selected.

_Alternative treatments to chemical applications will always be tried first.

_Mowing heights will be raised during periods of plant stress.

_Only regionally adapted, disease-resistant species and cultivars of turfgrass will be planted.

_Grass clippings will be reused on the golf course.

_Staff training and development will include training in IPM and alternative practices.

_All city-operated golf courses will stay abreast of scientific developments at the Guelph Turfgrass Institute and will offer their properties for potential demonstration sites or collaborative trials.

3.Wildlife and Habitat Management

_Potential naturalized areas will be identified and mapped. Naturalization and native species selection to commence in 1999.

_Bluebird, purple martin and swallow houses to be erected starting in 1999.

_Native species and perennial plants will gradually replace some of the annual bedding plants commencing 1999. Native plant nursery to be established in 1999.

_All ponds and water courses will have adequate buffer strips of, reeds, sedges, taller grasses or other filtering plants established in 1999.

4.Member/Public Involvement

_Bird watching stations to be identified and established with information about the program by 2000.

_Educational display including an explanation of the pesticide reduction and environmental enhancement programs to be placed in clubhouse and pro shop to be created in 1999.

_Fact sheets about Integrated Plant Management and the Scarlett Woods Environmental Enhancement programs to be provided in the clubhouse and pro shop by 2000.

_Launch the project with an event such as a golf challenge with local councillors, the mayor, local business leaders, environmentalists; (Spring 1999)

_Organize two public tours/demonstration days for the local community; (1999)

_Walking trails in out-of-play areas through some of the native vegetation on the course property to be established by 2001.

_Establish a local school program using the trails for closer study and appreciation of the native vegetation and wildlife by 2001.

_Greening of Scarlett Woods committee including representatives from users of the golf course and the community to be established in 1999.

5.Water Conservation

_Irrigation controls to be improved to provide water based on weather data and evapotranspiration rate by 2001.

_Drainage system to be evaluated for maximum recycling in 1999.

6.Water Quality Management

_A water quality monitoring protocol to be established in 1999. Samples from the Humber River and selected sites on the golf course will be analyzed for heavy metals, inorganics, pesticides, PCBs and nutrients before and after pesticide and fertilizer applications. Samples will be taken upstream and downstream of the golf course.

_Irrigation and fertilizer applications will correspond with the plant's ability to absorb both to avoid excess run-off or leaching.

_Fertilizer formulations will be chosen to minimize run-off or leaching.

_Areas of potential wetland will be identified and develop or retained as such, where possible.

The Authority's interest in the management of the Scarlett Woods Golf Course and Working Group is both general and specific. The Authority owns the land on which the course is located, with these lands being managed under agreement by the City of Toronto. Consequently, we have an interest in ensuring that the best practices available are being used at Scarlett Woods. This is with a view to protecting the asset which we hold on behalf of the public.

In a more general sense, the Authority's objectives include maintenance of healthy watersheds and public environmental education. Implementation of integrated pest management and other measures in the Audubon program will help meet our objectives by:

-reducing the likelihood of ground and surface water contamination;

-enhance wildlife habitat and diversity;

-increase the number of wetland areas and amount of riparian vegetation;

-allow for the enhancement of native plant species at Scarlett Woods; and

-expose the public to the benefits of regeneration activities and appropriate management of green spaces.

February 15, 1999

To:Toronto Inter-Departmental Environment Team (TIE)

From:Dr. Sheela V. Basrur, Medical Officer of Health

Subject:TIE Pesticides Subcommittee: Terms of Reference

Purpose:

To provide a progress report, setting out the terms of reference for a TIE Pesticides Subcommittee.

Source of Funds:

Funding sources for the Pesticides Subcommittee to be identified by TIE. Pursuant to Council direction, $20,000 has been requested in the 1999 Environmental Protection Office budget submission for a pesticides public education program.

Recommendations:

It is recommended that:

(1)The Toronto Inter-Departmental Environment Team (TIE) approve the proposed Terms of Reference and convene the Pesticides Subcommittee by March 1, 1999.

(2)TIE forward this report to the Pesticides Subcommittee for information.

Background:

At its meeting of December 16-17, 1998, City Council adopted with amendments the recommendations of the report (October 30, 1998) from the Medical Officer of Health, "Phasing Out Pesticide Use in the City of Toronto". City Council adopted in principle the banning of pesticides on all City property and recommended among other things:

1. That the Commissioner of Economic Development, Culture and Tourism, the Medical Officer of Health, and the Commissioner of Works and Emergency Services be requested to submit a report to the Board of Health, the Works and Utilities Committee, and the Economic Development Committee no later than February 1999, on a reasonable phase-in that would aim to achieve an end to the application of pesticides on public green spaces in 1999, except in emergency situations or other circumstances to be outlined in a report by the Commissioner of Economic Development, Culture and Tourism.

2.That staff ensure that the phased-in ban include an improved and modified lawn care program to balance the effect of eliminating pesticides.

3.That the proposed Pesticides Subcommittee, as amended by Recommendation No. (2) of the Board of Health, be convened to assist the Chief Administrative Officer and the Medical Officer of Health in the development of their report.

4.That funding for the proposed pesticide public education program be included for consideration in the 1999 budget, amending Recommendation No. (3) of the Board of Health.

5.That the appropriate staff be requested to submit a report to the appropriate committee on a program similar to the Plant Health Care Program of the City of Waterloo that involves horticultural practices to lead to the near elimination of pesticide use on City of Toronto properties.

6.That the submission by Councillor Shiner, consisting of a report dated November 1996 which was before the former City of North Environment Committee, entitled Pesticide Use/Alternatives to Pesticides - 1996, and detailed recommendations with respect thereto, be referred to the Chief Administrative Officer, the Toronto Inter-Departmental Environment Team, the Medical Officer of Health and any other staff reviewing pesticide use, to review in context with the final reports.

Comments:

As a first step in developing a corporate strategy to phase out pesticide use on public green spaces in 1999, the Medical Officer of Health in consultation with staff from Economic Development, Culture and Tourism and Works & Emergency Services propose the following terms of reference for the Pesticides Subcommittee.

It is recommended that TIE approve terms of reference for the TIE Pesticides Subcommittee and convene the first meeting by March 1, 1999.

Role and Mandate

The TIE Pesticides Subcommittee shall assist the Corporation of the City of Toronto to phase out its use of pesticides on public green spaces in 1999 and beyond.

In phase one (winter 1999), the Subcommittee shall:

1.develop a corporate policy and strategy which aims to achieve an end to applying pesticides on public green spaces in Toronto in 1999, except in emergency situations or other circumstances;

2.develop a plan to evaluate the effectiveness of the strategy; and

3.report on the policy, strategy, and evaluation framework to TIE, the Board of Health, the Economic Development Committee, the Works and Utilities Committee, City Council, and the Environmental Task Force.

In phase two (spring 1999), the Subcommittee shall:

1.begin implementation of the corporate strategy; and

2.report on the implementation plan and progress to TIE, the Board of Health, the Economic Development Committee, the Works and Utilities Committee, City Council, and the Environmental Task Force.

In phase three (fall 1999), the Subcommittee shall:

1. continue implementation of the corporate strategy;

2.evaluate progress and achievements of the implementation strategy;

3.develop a plan for corporate pesticide use reductions in 2000;

4.develop a public education program to help residents reduce their exposure to pesticides and assist them in making informed decisions about pesticide use; and

5.report on items 1-4 to TIE, the Board of Health, the Economic Development Committee, the Works and Utilities Committee, City Council, and the Environmental Task Force.

A communications strategy will be developed by Public Health and Parks and Recreation to publicize the work of the Subcommittee.

Composition

The Subcommittee shall be comprised of:

-.two Co-chairs: the Director of Public Health Planning & Policy (as designated by the Medical Officer of Health) and the General Manager, Parks and Recreation (or her designate);

-.two City staff and two alternates (from Public Health and Parks and Recreation respectively);

-.one Environmental Task Force member;

-.one Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) 416 representative;

-.one representative of the Toronto Environmental Alliance (TEA);

-.one representative of the Ontario Parks Association;

-.one representative of the Audubon Society;

-.one representative of Landscape Ontario; and

-.two representatives of businesses with demonstrated expertise in pesticide-free horticultural practices.

Mandate of Chairpersons

The Co-chairs shall ensure completion of the Subcommittee mandate and its deliverables:

1.corporate policy to phase out pesticide use on public green spaces;

2. corporate strategy to phase out pesticide use on public green spaces;

3.public education program to help residents reduce their use of pesticides and to make informed decisions about pesticide use; and

4. reports to TIE that are copied for information to City Council, the Environmental Task Force, the Board of Health, the Economic Development Committee, and the Works and Utilities Committee.

Membership Recruitment and Selection Process

The Co-Chairs shall each identify a representative and an alternate for the Subcommittee from their respective divisions.

The following factors shall be used to select representatives of CUPE 416, TEA, Ontario Parks Association, Audubon Society, Landscape Ontario and business:

1.demonstrated ability and expertise to make significant contributions to the City's efforts to phase out its use of pesticides on public green spaces;

2.demonstrated expertise and commitment to pesticide-free horticultural practices;

3.availability and commitment to attending Committee meetings; and

4. no identified conflict of interest.

Working Groups

The Subcommittee shall if necessary, establish one or more Working Groups to further study issues and to make recommendations to the Subcommittee. Working Groups shall have an ad hoc status with a clear mandate and time frame.

Each Working Group shall be chaired by a Subcommittee member, as selected by the committee and with the agreement of the member. The Chair shall be responsible for the generation of minutes.

The Working Group(s) shall comprise members of the Subcommittee and any other interested parties or experts as the Committee may require.

The Working Group(s) shall report to the Co-chairs of the Subcommittee.

Meetings

Subcommittee meetings shall be scheduled and held every three weeks or at the call of the Co-chairs. Appendix A contains a list of proposed meeting dates for 1999.

The meetings shall be held at Metro Hall or City Hall (depending on space availability).

The Director of Public Health Planning & Policy and the General Manager, Parks and Recreation or their respective designates shall co-chair the meetings.

Meetings shall involve Subcommittee members and invited guests (as necessary).

The first meeting of the Subcommittee shall be held on March 1, 1999.

Minutes of each meeting shall be prepared and made available to the public.

Budget

A budget for the Pesticides Subcommittee is being developed. Items for consideration in the budget include remuneration of citizen members, and consulting fees for completion of an evaluation of the implementation strategy. Parks and Recreation Division staff have indicated that funding for any equipment that may be needed to implement an Integrated Pest Management program will be required from centralization of fleet.

At its meeting of December 16-17, 1998, City Council had amended Recommendation 3 of the Board of Health to provide that funding for the proposed public education program be included for consideration in the 1999 budget. Pursuant to Council direction, $20,000 has been requested in the 1999 Environmental Protection Office budget submission for a pesticides public education program.

Dissolution of the Subcommittee

The Subcommittee shall dissolve and be disbanded by City Council upon successful completion of its mandate and submission of a final report to TIE and City Council.

Conclusions:

A pesticide use phase-out strategy is an important component of any broader corporate initiative that aims to reduce or eliminate the use of toxic substances that could potentially harm human health and the environment.

Once the pesticides phase-out strategy is fully developed by the Pesticides Subcommittee, the Co-chairs will submit a report on the strategy to TIE. A copy of that report will be submitted for information to City Council. A co-ordinated process is being developed to ensure that the report to Council is first routed through the Environmental Task Force, the Board of Health, the Economic Development Committee, and the Works and Utilities Committee.

Contact Names:

Steve McKenna, Research Consultant, Environmental Protection Office, Public Health Division

Siu Fong, Research Consultant, Environmental Protection Office, Public Health Division

Toronto Public Health

277 Victoria Street, 7^th Floor

Toronto, Ontario

M5B 1W2

Tel:416-392-6788

Fax:416-392-7418

E-mail: smckenna@toronto.ca

sfong@toronto.ca

Dr. Sheela V. Basrur

Medical Officer of Health

Appendix A

Pesticides Subcommittee - Proposed Meeting Schedule for 1999

March 1

March 22

April 12

May 3

May 25

June 14

July 5

July 26

August 16

September 7

September 27

October 18

November 8

November 29

December 20

________________________________________________________________________________

February 15, 1999

To:Toronto Inter-Departmental Environment Committee

From:Commissioner of Economic Development, Culture and Tourism

Subject:A Phase-in Plan To Achieve An End To Applying Pesticides On Public Green Space in 1999, Except In Emergency Situations Or Other Exceptions

Purpose:

The Parks and Recreation Division has prepared a draft report on a phased-in reduction in pesticide usage on public green spaces as a basis to begin discussion with the Pesticide Sub-Committee.

Recommendations:

1.Implement an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) program for all City of Toronto Departments, Agencies, Boards and Commissions that provides for safe management of pests and reduces pesticide usage.

2. That a strategy be developed to ensure that herbicide applications in general parklands will be reduced in 1999 by 50% of the 1998 levels.

3. That specific targets for reduction are identified in other program areas outlined in this report.

4.That staff report further on the cost of needed equipment and resources in order to implement the IPM strategy.

5.That the City work toward gaining Audubon certification which ensures ecologically sound land management and the conservation of natural resources.

6.That a copy of this report be sent to the Economic Development Committee, the Board of Health, and the Works and Utilities Committee

7.That appropriate City officials be authorized to take the necessary action to give effect thereto.

Council Reference/Background/History:

The Commissioner of Economic Development, Culture and Tourism was directed by City Council to submit a report to the Economic Development Committee, the Board of Health, and the Works and Utilities Committee on a reasonable phase-in that would aim to achieve an end to applying pesticides on public green spaces in 1999, except in emergency situations or other exceptions to be outlined in the report. The plan was to include an improved and modified lawn care program to balance the effect of eliminating pesticides similar to the Plant Health Care Program of the City of Waterloo that involves horticultural practices and to review the recommendations made in a November 1996 report to the former City of North York Environment Committee.

Comments and/or Discussion and/or Justification:

The Parks and Recreation Division maintains public green space by encouraging the growth of healthy plants in an urban environment. More than 8,000 hectares of parkland provide environmental and aesthetic benefits to the surrounding community. Healthy turf and plants are better able to resist attacks from competitive species, insect pests and fungal diseases.

This report outlines strategies and actions to enhance plant vigour and develops targets for pesticide reductions in specific program areas. The preparation of this report included a review of the Plant Health Care Program used in the City of Waterloo and a report made to the former Municipality of North York Environment Committee entitled Pesticide Use/Alternatives to Pesticides - 1996, as well as many other relevant publications and municipal strategies within the City.

The Plant Health Care Program used by the City of Waterloo outlines a pesticide reduction program that limits the use of chemicals in turf care. Alternatives to a dependence on pesticides are developed along with environmentally responsible practices. There are ten component parts listed: 1. Monitoring/scheduling, 2. Mowing, 3. Fertilizing, 4. Aerating, 5. Topdressing, 6. Overseeding, 7. Irrigating, 8. Dethatching, 9. Alternatives, 10. Education/Training. All of these components are utilized in every Integrated Pest Management (IPM) program and the City of Waterloo has demonstrated great results with their practices. The IPM program proposed by the Parks and Recreation Division is virtually the same as that of Waterloo's. Our program differs in scale (the population of Waterloo is 90,000 as compared to the City of Toronto, 2.8 million) and involves additional program areas such as golf courses and greenhouses.

The North York 1996 report outlines specific IPM practices and comments on establishing pesticide spraying levels as part of a comprehensive maintenance program. The report recommends that pesticides be used only as a last resort and concludes that establishing quotas on pesticide usage is not practical in some program areas.

The vision of our Department is that Toronto will be known as the "City within a Park" - a rich fabric of parks, open spaces, rivers and streams that will connect our neighbourhoods and join us with our clean, vibrant waterfront. We believe that:

-Natural environments and resources are important for present and future generations.

-Individuals have intrinsic worth and are entitled to access the benefits of parks and recreation in the type and level of activity consistent with their interest and ability.

-Green spaces protect habitat, biodiversity and ecological integrity.

-Parks are used for walking, jogging, relaxation, informal play, nature appreciation, picnics, socializing and sports.

-Green spaces provide a valuable contribution toward pollution control because they mitigate water, air and noise pollution.

-Integrated Pest Management is the best greenspace maintenance program to enhance the natural environment in a sound ecological manner.

Therefore, our mission is to ensure that people in the diverse communities of Toronto have access to safe, clean and beautiful parks, open spaces, ravines and forests.

The Parks and Recreation Division is proposing a comprehensive IPM program for identified program areas and has established targets for pesticide reductions in 1999. The objective of IPM is not to eradicate but to suppress pest populations to acceptable levels and to maintain the presence of natural enemies in an overall balanced system. A monitoring system, complete with documentation, determines if and when treatments are needed according to established threshold levels for various program areas. Amalgamation of all the Parks and Recreation Departments will create the opportunity to standardize and expand the IPM program throughout the City.

The program areas and the IPM strategy to reduce pesticides are outlined as follows:

General Parklands

General parklands include naturalized areas in ravine valleys, slopes and watercourses; broad expanses of maintained turfgrass; and smaller, more localized park settings with manicured turf areas. Turfgrass is acknowledged as the best surface for general park areas. The dense, intertwined root system is resilient to wear and tear. The uniform leaf structure can be maintained at a low height and creates a safe and even surface for a variety of recreational uses from organized sports, to walking and picnicking. Turf is an excellent source of oxygen generation and helps to prevent soil erosion.

The IPM strategy for maintaining general parklands includes:

-expanding naturalized areas on slopes and near watercourses by introducing native species more resistant to pests.

-raising the mowing height to 2-l/2 to 3 inches on maintained turf areas to develop healthy root systems and inhibit weed development.

-aerating of turf to relieve soil compaction and dethatching to provide better absorption of water and nutrients.

-fertilizing regularly, including organic compost and a pilot project with biosolids from the Main Treatment Plant.

The application of broadleaf herbicides such as Killex and M.C.P.A. will be reduced by at least 50% of the 1998 levels in general parklands. Broad spectrum herbicides such as Roundup are used on hard surfaces such as parking lots and pathways. Roundup is a low toxicity pesticide that has been deemed environmentally safe by experts at Guelph University. Roundup is also used around tree bases to reduce damage to trunks caused by line trimmers. The application of Roundup in general parklands will be reduced by at least 50% of the 1998 levels by instituting a tree mulching program. In addition, a pilot project involving new technology which utilizes super-heated water and specialized equipment will be implemented to reduce weed infestation on impervious surfaces.

A monitoring program will be developed and implemented to record areas of turf deterioration in general parklands.

It should be noted that some areas of general parkland, such as the downtown core, have severe infestations of rodents and vermin. The densely populated downtown area has unique conditions that support rat and mice populations. An intricate network of underground cavities and storm sewers, combined with readily available food in the form of garbage, encourage the proliferation of rodent populations. Currently, a contracted service provides for rodent control. These methods may be separately reported.

Sports Fields

Sports fields include soccer pitches, baseball diamonds, football fields and areas for cricket, field hockey and track and field events. Turf provides an excellent playing surface for sports activities by supplying adequate cushioning for falls during play. These locations are heavily used and soil compaction in the root zone can cause turf to become weakened and susceptible to invasive weeds. Weed infestations can cause pockets in playing surfaces which present safety hazards.

The IPM strategy for maintaining thick, healthy turf for sports fields includes:

-fertilizing regularly by using slow-release organic fertilizer to build up soil organic content.

-aerating turf to relieve soil compaction and dethatching on a regular basis.

-mowing frequently, although at a reduced height from general parklands.

-topdressing and overseeding on required areas.

-irrigating on a regular schedule and establishing a capital program for installing irrigation systems on sports fields that do not have them and providing for soil amendment as required.

-resodding specific areas when necessary, although this can be expensive ($25,000 per field)

and the purchased sod will have undergone intensive chemical growing conditions.

The application of broadleaf herbicides such as Killex and M.C.P.A. will be reduced by 10% of the 1998 levels in sports fields. Broad spectrum herbicides such as Roundup are used to delineate boundary lines and warning tracks, as well as on hard surfaces, under bleachers and pathways. The application of Roundup on sports fields will be reduced by 10% of the 1998 levels. The new super-heated water technology may assist with line marking.

A monitoring program will be implemented to record areas of turf deterioration and long-term strategies will be developed to promote and maintain healthy turf. Consideration will be given to allow certain sports fields to "rest" after heavy use or wet weather.

Garden Parks/Horticultural Displays

The City of Toronto has many beautiful garden parks and horticultural sites with floral displays and unique species of shrubs and trees. Colourful beds of annuals and ornamentals provide attractive settings for civic sites and display areas. Significant revenue is derived from wedding photography permits in garden parks.

These unique species require an intensive maintenance program and the IPM strategy for this program area includes:

-selecting pest-resistant species.

-amending soil with compost and other materials rich in micro-organisms.

-fertilizing using organic substances where possible.

-hand-weeding and mulching in beds.

-providing for good ventilation conditions.

-utilizing biological defences such as beneficial nematodes and other natural organisms.

The application of pesticides will be reduced by 10% of the 1998 levels in all horticultural areas. Insects and diseases are the main pest problems associated with ornamental trees, plants and shrubs. Weather conditions can cause an outbreak of fungus diseases such as black spot and potentially wipe out entire rose beds. Fungicide applications, only when necessary, are vital in maintaining ornamentals. The cost of plant replacement is prohibitive.

In addition, insect populations can explode in certain conditions and exceed the controls of regular maintenance. In these cases, insecticide applications may be necessary. The least toxic, most effective insecticides are selected, including insecticidal soap, mineral oil and pyrethrins.

A monitoring program will be implemented to determine trouble spots and alternative strategies will be implemented. Any significant costs associated with the pesticide reduction will be recorded.

Roadside Maintenance

The Parks and Recreation Division is responsible for green scape maintenance along roadsides and boulevards throughout the City of Toronto. There are safety concerns regarding visibility and maintaining areas to allow vehicles to pull off the roadway away from traffic lanes.

The IPM strategy for this program area is to increase the mowing height to at least 3 inches and to allow sloped areas to grow. Naturalization efforts are improving the green scape along major arteries and there are more designs that will be implemented in 1999.

The application of broadleaf herbicides such as Killex will be suspended for 1999 and the results will be monitored and recorded. The other herbicide used in roadside maintenance is Roundup. It is extremely useful in controlling weeds along major arteries, around guardrails posts and curbs. The alternative maintenance practice is extensive use of gas-powered line trimmers which incur increased labour costs and damage to posts as well as contributing adversely to the air quality in the City.

The application of Roundup will be reduced by 10% in roadside maintenance from 1998 levels.

Greenhouse/Conservatory/Special Sites

There are six plant production greenhouses in the city with two major locations in High Park and Centennial Park. These greenhouses produce three categories of plants: annuals and other ornamentals for use in floral displays in parks; ornamental plants used for floral displays in conservatories and other civic sites; and native plants for use in naturalized areas throughout the city. More than 1.2 million annuals are being produced for 1999. In 1998 no pesticides were sprayed on annuals grown from seed at the High Park greenhouses. No pesticides of any kind are used on native plants in production. This is possible for two reasons: one, native plants have a higher resistance to pest infestations: two, given their use in natural settings as perennial plantings, some pest damage is acceptable.

Some ornamental plants such as poinsettias, show chrysanthemums, Easter Lilies, etc. are very susceptible to pest infestations. If these pests are not controlled, they will seriously interfere with the production of acceptable plants and established programs for floral displays at the conservatories could not continue.

The IPM program at the greenhouses has long been established and includes the following elements:

-selecting disease-resistant species and increasing production of perennials and native species.

-optimizing growing conditions by controlling the indoor environment.

-utilizing biological defences and organisms by introducing beneficial parasites and predators.

In instances where pesticides are required to avert a crop failure, it is selected on the basis of the least toxic, most effective option. For example, in 1998 at the High Park Greenhouse, minute amounts of natural sulphur were applied automatically after hours to control a fungus disease on poinsettias. Previously, routine applications of a more toxic chemical fungicide was necessary. We continue to monitor our pest control program in the greenhouses in order to minimize the use of pesticides.

There are three conservatories available to the public in Toronto: Allan Gardens, Cloud Gardens and Centennial Park. They are open year-round and feature seasonal floral displays as well as permanent collections of tropical, sub-tropical and arid plants. All conservatories have established IPM programs that emphasize biological controls by introducing beneficial insect predators and parasites. A conservatory is suited to this method of pest control because the plant material stays in place and the environmental controls enable the beneficial insects to reproduce.

Only pesticides compatible with the beneficial insects are used such as insecticidal soaps and pyrethrins. Any applications of these low toxicity pesticides are performed after hours to avoid public exposure.

Golf Course/Bowling Greens

There are five public golf courses currently operated and maintained by the Parks and Recreation Division and two additional courses that are operated under a lease agreement. All of the golf courses are heavily used with over 250,000 rounds played on the five courses maintained by our staff in 1998. The revenue generated exceeds $5,000,000 annually.

All five directly-operated courses are registered in the Audubon Co-operative Sanctuary Program

which combines ecologically sound land management and the conservation of natural resources. In order to receive accreditation, requirements in six categories must be fulfilled:

1. An environmental plan including a written policy and procedures is established.

2An IPM program is developed and implemented.

3.Wildlife and habitat management is identified and mapped.

4.Public involvement is encouraged through education programs.

5.Water conservation is enhanced by improved irrigation systems.

6.Water quality is monitored.

The IPM program for the golf course program area includes:

-developing precise irrigation control systems.

-fertilizing regularly using organic fertilizers with fish and seaweed emulsions.

-soil testing for nutrient requirements.

-scouting for pests and diseases through visual inspection and climate data collection help determine if action thresholds are exceeded.

-recycling grass clippings.

-naturalizing areas around water courses.

Creeping bentgrass and "poa annua" are the closely mowed turfgrass species on tees and greens and the low mowing height, combined with wear, predispose the plants to diseases. Fungicides are required periodically throughout the season because certain fungus diseases can wipe out entire greens within 48 hours. The biggest factor in determining fungicide requirements remains weather. Pathogenic fungi are always present in the soil and become active when the climatic conditions are conducive. Susceptibility can be reduced with proper plant species selection and stress reduction; however, some diseases will become active even with good management. This is when the "last resort" of fungicide application is required.

Herbicide use is restricted as much as possible and Roundup is used on hard surfaces such as the parking lot and curbs.

The Scarlett Woods Working Group has been reviewing the management practices at that golf course and will report soon on recommendations to reduce pesticide usage.

In addition, there are twenty lawn bowling locations managed by City staff and the same turfgrass species require a similar maintenance program.

Forestry

Toronto's ravine forests and park and street scape trees are an important component of our natural urban environment. Our staff are responsible for the maintenance of over three million trees which assist in moderating climatic extremes and contribute to sound absorption and help reduce air pollutants. Specific insect pests and diseases such as aphids, elm leaf beetle, carpenter ants, Dutch Elm disease and leaf blight may kill or stunt trees and IPM techniques to control these situations include:

-irrigation during dry spells, especially trees planted in containers and along street scapes.

-mulching to retain soil moisture and encourage healthy root systems.

-naturalizing where possible with native species more resistant to pest damage.

-pruning to remove dead wood and improve air circulation and growth.

-improving public participation by distributing information leaflets on specific

problems with solutions.

Innovative programs have been developed, such as using nematodes for control of elm leaf beetle. The recently developed vaccine for Dutch Elm Disease will be introduced as a pilot project. Occasionally, injections of specific pesticides such as orthene (Acecaps) or metasystox-R are applied as a last resort to save trees but there is no public exposure. Typically, only when required, applications of dormant oil (gypsy moth), Bacillus Thuringiensis (elm leaf beetle) or borax (carpenter ants) are conducted for specific problem trees. Lindane and Dursban usage is suspended for 1999.

Momentum has been building in the past five years to restore natural plant communities and control invasive species populations. The quality of ravine forests has been degraded by encroachment of invasive species and development. The most serious invasive tree species in ravine areas is the Norway Maple. Other plants which are problematic include the Manitoba Maple, Japanese Knotweed, Garlic Mustard, White Mulberry and Black Swallowort (Dog-strangling vine). The Norway Maple has an important place in the street scape of Toronto and occupies as much as 40% of the street tree inventory in certain areas. It is well suited to harsh urban settings; however, its establishment is inappropriate in natural settings because it easily dominates native species and contributes to erosion of steep ravine slopes.

Attempts to repopulate native species in ravine forest settings involves initial site renovation by controlled use of Roundup. Without the ability to use this herbicide on selected sites, conservation efforts will be thwarted and invasive species will spread in environmentally significant areas such as High Park and Rouge Valley and other ravine woodlands.

Conclusions:

The implementation of an Integrated Pest Management program and a reduction in pesticide usage are goals of the Parks and Recreation Division of Economic Development, Culture and Tourism. The emphasis is placed on using alternative strategies to control pest populations to acceptable levels and to use chemical intervention only as a last resort.

We would propose that this report become the basis for discussion of the Pesticide Management Sub-Committee. The Parks and Recreation Division will move forward with an implementation strategy that will include the identification of any needed equipment and resources in order to get a head start on the 1999 growing season.

Contact Name:

Doug McDonald

392-8578

Operations Support Co-ordinator

Central District

Parks and Recreation Division

Joe Halstead

Commissioner of Economic Development, Culture and Tourism