Department of Forest Resources and Agrifoods

Increase in the cost of insect control program against Hemlock Looper
BACKGROUNDER

• The fall insect forecast in 1995 showed that the hemlock looper population is increasing and spreading northward and along the Humber Valley.
• In order to avoid significant timber losses, the Department recommended mitigating measures be implemented using the insecticide B.t.
• The Department prioritized the areas requiring treatment and feel about 95,000 hectares will require intervention.
• Meetings have been held with Corner Brook Pulp and Paper and Abitibi Price to develop a strategy.
• Submission has been made to the Department of Environment and Labour for a license.
• Tenders have been called for spray aircraft and the purchase of B.t. insecticide.
• Abitibi-Price and Corner Brook Pulp and Paper pay the cost of treatment on their timber land holdings. Approximatley 80% of the total cost is paid by these two companies.