Facilities Pest Management

Plan for Invasive Plants

And Problem Vegetation

PMP Application #: TNRD-INV-2015

October 24, 2014

Table of Contents

1.0 Introduction ------------------------------------------------------- 1

1.1 The Thompson-Nicola Regional District ------------------------------------- 1

1.2 Geographic Boundaries and Description of the PMP Area ------------------- 1

1.3 Responsibility for Invasive Plant Management ---------------------------- 2

1.4 Purpose and Objectives of the PMP ------------------------------------- 2

1.5 Term of the PMP ------------------------------------------------------- 3

2.0 Invasive Plants and Noxious Weeds ------------------------------------------ 3

2.1 Invasive Plant General Characteristics ------------------------------------- 5

2.2 How Invasive Plants Are Spread ---------------------------------------------- 5

2.3 The Need to Control Invasive Plants ---------------------------------------------- 6

3.0 Problem Vegetation ------------------------------------------------------------- 7

4.0 The TNRD Integrated Invasive Plant and Problem Vegetation

Management Program ------------------------------------------------------------ 7

4.1 Goal and Objectives ------------------------------------------------------- 7

4.1.1 Goal ---------------------------------------------------------------- 7

4.1.2 Objectives ------------------------------------------------------- 8

4.2 Elements of the TNRD Integrated Invasive Plant and Problem

Vegetation Management Program ------------------------------------- 8

4.3 Prevention (Planning) ---------------------------------------------------------------- 9

4.4 Pest Identification ---------------------------------------------------------------- 9

4.4.1 Available Resources for Invasive Plant Identification ---------- 10

4.5 Monitoring Program for Invasive Plants and Problem Vegetation ---------- 10

4.5.1 Monitoring Methods ---------------------------------------------- 11

4.5.2 Frequency of Monitoring ------------------------------------- 11

4.5.3 Data Collected During Invasive Plant Monitoring --------------------- 11

4.5.4 Data Collected During Problem Vegetation Plant Monitoring ------- 12

4.6 Injury Thresholds and Treatment Decisions for Invasive Plants --------- 12

4.7 Injury Thresholds and Treatment Decisions for Problem Vegetation

At Facilities ------------------------------------------------------------------------- 15

4.7.1 How Treatment (Injury) Thresholds are Chosen ----------------------- 15

4.8 Treatment Options ----------------------------------------------------------------- 17

4.8.1 Physical Control Methods (Non-Chemical) ---------------------------- 17

4.8.2 Cultural Control Methods (Non-Chemical) --------------------------- 19

4.8.3 Biological Control Agents Methods (Non-Chemical) ---------------- 21

4.8.4 Selective and Spot Applications of Pesticides ------------------- 22

4.8.5 Pesticide Use Patterns ------------------------------------------------------ 22

4.8.6 Pesticide Application Methods/Techniques --------------------------- 24

4.8.7 Pesticide Application Equipment ------------------------------------ 25

4.9 Treatment Selection Criteria ------------------------------------------------------- 27

4.9.1 Factors to Consider When Using Pesticides for Invasive

Plant or Problem Vegetation Control------------------------------------- 27

4.9.2 Considerations in Choosing a Treatment Option ------------------- 28

4.9.3 Treatment Selection Decision Tree ------------------------------------- 29

4.10 Specific Treatment Options for Invasive Plants ---------------------------- 30

4.11 Treatment Inspection and Evaluations ---------------------------- 32

4.11.1 Inspections ------------------------------------------------------- 33

4.11.2 Evaluations ------------------------------------------------------- 33

5.0 Operational Information ------------------------------------------------------- 34

5.1 Qualifications and Responsibilities of Persons Applying Pesticides --------- 34

5.2 Procedures for Safely Transporting Pesticides ---------------------------- 35

5.3 Procedures for Safely Storing Pesticides ------------------------------------- 35

5.4 Procedures for Safely Mixing, Loading and Applying Pesticides ---------- 36

5.5 Procedures for Safe Disposal of Empty Pesticide Containers and

Unused Pesticides ---------------------------------------------------------------- 36

5.5 Procedures for Responding to Pesticide Spills ---------------------------- 37

6.0 Environmental Protection Strategies and Procedures ---------------------------- 37

6.1 Strategies and Procedures to Protect Community Watersheds----------------- 38

6.2 Strategies and Procedures to Protect Domestic and Agricultural

Water Sources ------------------------------------------------------------------------- 38

6.3 Strategies for Protecting Fish and Wildlife, Riparian Areas, Bodies of

Water and Wildlife Habitat ------------------------------------------------------- 40

6.4 Strategies to Protect Contamination of Food for Human Consumption ------ 40

6.5 Pre-Treatment Inspection Procedures for Identifying Treatment

Area Boundaries ---------------------------------------------------------------- 41

6.6 Procedures for Maintaining and Calibrating Herbicide Application

Equipment ------------------------------------------------------------------------- 41

6.7 Procedures for Monitoring Weather Conditions and Strategies for

Modifying Herbicide Application Methods for Different Weather

Conditions ------------------------------------------------------------------------- 41

6.8 Posting of Treatment Notices ----------------------------------------------------- 42

7.0 Reporting, Notification and Consultation -------------------------------------- 42

7.1 Reporting -------------------------------------------------------------------------- 42

7.1.1 Confirmation Holder Use Records -------------------------------------- 42

7.1.2 Annual Report for Confirmation Holders ----------------------------- 43

7.2 Notifications -------------------------------------------------------------------------- 43

7.2.1 Notification of PMP Confirmation -------------------------------------- 43

7.2.2 Annual Notice of Intent to Treat -------------------------------------- 43

7.2.3 Requests to Amend the PMP ----------------------------------------------- 44

7.2.4 Notification of Contraventions -------------------------------------- 44

7.2.5 Public Notification Prior to Treatment ----------------------------- 44

7.2.6 Employee Notification Prior to Treatment ----------------------------- 44

7.2.7 Posting of Treatment Notices ----------------------------------------------- 44

7.3 Consultations -------------------------------------------------------------------------- 45

7.3.1 Public Consultation Plan ----------------------------------------------- 45

7.3.2 Public Consultation Report ----------------------------------------------- 46

7.3.3 First Nations Consultation ----------------------------------------------- 46

Appendices

Appendix 1 Map of PMP Area ------------------------------------------------------- 47

Appendix 2 List of Specific Properties to Which the PMP Applies --------- 48

Tables

Table 1 Provincial and Regional Weeds Designated Under the BC Weed

Control Act ------------------------------------ --------- 4

Table 2 Plants Currently Listed as Invasive Under the Forest and Range

Practices Act, Invasive Plant Regulation -------------------------- 5

Table 3 Web Sites for Invasive Plant Identification and Information ------------------- 10

Table 4 Categories of Invasive Plant Species of Current Priority in BC ---------- 13

Table 5 Invasive Plant Site Priorities Within the TNRD ---------------------------- 14

Table 6 Injury Thresholds for the TNRD Invasive Plant Program ------------------- 14

Table 7 Description and Rationale, Benefits and Limitations of Physical

Treatment Methods --------------------------------------------------------------- 18

Table 8 Description and Rationale, Benefits and Limitations of Cultural

Treatment Methods ---------------------------------------------------------------- 20

Table 9 Description and Rationale, Benefits and Limitations of Bio-Control

Treatment Methods ---------------------------------------------------------------- 21

Table 10 Pesticide Active Ingredients/Examples of Trade Names Proposed for

Invasive Plant and Problem Vegetation Management -------------------------- 22

Table 11 Properties and Use Patterns of the Pesticide Active Ingredients

Proposed for Use -------------------------------------------------------------------- 23

Table 12 Description and Rationale, Benefits and Limitations of Pesticide Application

Methods/Techniques for Invasive Plant and Problem Vegetation

Management ------------------------------------------------------------------------- 25

Table 13 Residual Soil Activity of Pesticides Proposed for Use ------------------------ 27

Table 14 Control Options for Invasive Plants of Current Concern (2014)

Within the TNRD ------------------------------------------------------------------- 31

Table 15 Minimum Water Protection Measures for the Protection of Domestic and

Agricultural Wells and Water Intakes, Bodies of Water and Streams ------- 39

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1.0 Introduction

Sections 24(2) (f) & (g) of the Integrated Pest Management Regulation (IPMR) requires the

preparation of a Pest Management Plan (PMP) for pesticide use for:

The management of noxious weeds (and/or invasive plants) on more than 50 hectares a

year of public land managed by a single entity [IPMR Section 24(2) (g)]; or,

The management of vegetation on more than 20 hectares a year of public land managed by

a single entity [IPMR Section 24(2) (f)].

A PMP means a plan that describes:

A program for managing pest populations or reducing damage caused by pests based on

integrated pest management (IPM); and,

Methods of handling, preparing, mixing, applying, and otherwise using pesticides within

the program.

This plan is intended to describe and provide guidance for an IPM approach to the management of

invasive plants and problem vegetation on property that is directly controlled by the TNRD.

1.1 The Thompson-Nicola Regional District (TNRD)

With a population of 128,475 (2011 census), and a total area of 45,279 square kilometers,

the TNRD incorporates 10 municipalities (Ashcroft, Barriere, Cache Creek, Chase,

Clearwater, Clinton, Kamloops, Logan Lake, Lytton and Merritt), as well as 10 electoral

areas that represent the many small, unincorporated communities. The TNRD has carried

out a noxious weed and invasive plant control program since 1975 on both private land

and public land that is under its control.

1.2 Geographic Boundaries and Description of the

PMP Area

This PMP applies only to facilities that are directly controlled by the TNRD. The

municipalities of Ashcroft, Barriere, Cache Creek, Chase, Clearwater, Clinton, Kamloops,

Logan Lake, Lytton and Merritt, as well as all private land, are not included within this

PMP. Some of the facilities directly controlled by the TNRD are located within these

municipalities, and are covered under this PMP. All facilities are fenced compounds that

have physically restricted access. Facilities include landfills, transfer stations, eco-

depots, septage pits, and the TNRD Shop at 660 Mission Flat Road, Kamloops.

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A map of the geographic boundaries to which this PMP applies is shown in Appendix 1.

A list of the specific facilities directly controlled by the TNRD, and to which this PMP

applies, is shown in Appendix 2.

1.3 Person Responsible for Managing Invasive Plants

and Problem Vegetation

Within the TNRD, the person responsible for coordinating the management of invasive

plants and problem vegetation under this PMP, and the principal contact for information

related to this plan is Dennis LaBrie, EHS Operations Supervisor. Mr. LaBrie can be

contacted at (250) 377-8673 or 1-877-377-8673, or by e-mail at dlabrie@tnrd.ca.

1.4 Purpose and Objectives of The PMP

This PMP enables the TNRD to utilize pesticides in managing invasive plants and

problem vegetation on the specific properties (listed in Appendix 2) that it directly

controls. This PMP is designed to replace the existing PMP (Confirmation # 116-0027-10/15)

that expires on May 17, 2015.

This PMP describes:

A program for managing populations of invasive plants and problem vegetation, or

reducing the damage that they may cause; and,

The methods of handling, preparing, mixing, applying, and otherwise using

pesticides within the program to manage populations of invasive plants and problem

vegetation.

This PMP ensures:

Legal accountability with the provisions of the Integrated Pest Management Act

(IPMA) and Integrated Pest Management Regulations (IPMR), as well as

applicable federal, provincial and local government laws and regulations;

The responsible use of pesticides;

The incorporation and use of the principles of IPM;

Awareness of, and input into, the TNRD invasive plant and problem vegetation

management program;

That the effective use of an IPM program takes into account environmentally

sensitive areas and land uses, the prevention of contamination of food intended for

human consumption, the protection of community watersheds and other domestic

and agricultural water sources, and the protection of fish and wildlife, riparian

areas and wildlife habitat;

That there is continued investigation into alternative non-chemical methods of

invasive plant and problem vegetation management;

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Being vigilant in efforts to prevent environmental damage caused by the presence

of invasive plants and problem vegetation, and by the control methods used to

manage them; and,

Recognizing, that for several species of invasive plants and problem vegetation,

pesticide use may be the only reasonably practical means of control.

1.5 Term of the PMP

This PMP shall be in force for a five-year period from the date that Confirmation of a

Pesticide Use Notice (PUN) has been obtained from the BC Ministry of Environment

(MoE).

2.0 Invasive Plants and Noxious Weeds

The Invasive Species Council of BC defines invasive plants as: “Any invasive alien plant species

that has the potential to pose undesirable or detrimental impacts on humans, animals or

ecosystems.” (2014).

Invasive plants are plants that are non-native or alien to the ecosystem under consideration. Their

introduction causes, or is likely to cause, economic or environmental damage, or harm to human

health. In B.C. the term invasive plant is synonymous with invasive alien plant.

These plants threaten the natural environment and are recognized globally as the second greatest

threat to biodiversity. Free from the plant pests that keep them in check in their native ranges,

invasive plants reproduce rapidly and spread aggressively, dominating natural areas and altering

biological communities. The result of these invasions can include reduced recreation and crop

values, damaged infrastructure, displaced native vegetation that is important forage for wildlife

and livestock, reduced biodiversity including species at risk, and damaged native ecosystems.

For the purposes of this PMP, the following definitions apply:

Noxious weeds – Are invasive plant species designated to be noxious under the BC Weed Control

Act (WCA). The current provincial and regional (within the TNRD) weeds designated by

regulation to be noxious under the WCA and Regulations are shown in Table 1.

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Table 1: Current Provincial and Regional Weeds Designated by Regulation as Noxious Under the

BC Weed Control Act and Regulations (August 22, 2103).

The following weeds are classified as noxious within all regions of British Columbia:

Annual Sow Thistle Bohemian Knotweed Bur Chervil

Canada Thistle Common Reed Crupina

Common Toadflax Dalmation Toadflax Dense-flowered Cordgrass

Diffuse Knapweed Dodder English Cordgrass

Flowering Rush Garlic Mustard Giant Hogweed

Giant Knotweed Giant Mannagrass Gorse

Himalayan Knotweed Hound's-tongue Japanese Knotweed

Jointed Goatgrass Leafy Spurge Milk Thistle

North Africa Grass Perennial Sow Thistle Purple Loosestrife

Purple Nutsedge Rush Skeletonweed Saltmeadow Cordgrass

Scentless Chamomile Smooth Cordgrass Spotted Knapweed

Tansy Ragwort Velvetleaf Wild Oats

Yellow Flag Iris Yellow Nutsedge Yellow Starthistle

The following weeds are classified as noxious within the boundaries of the TNRD:

Blueweed Burdock Field Scabious

Hoary Cress Orange Hawkweed Oxeye Daisy

Perennial Pepperweed Sulphur Cinquefoil

Invasive plants – Are species that are non-native or alien to the ecosystem under consideration.

Their introduction causes, or is likely to cause, economic or environmental damage, or harm to

human health. In B.C., the term invasive plant is synonymous with invasive alien plant. Species

of invasive plants may be listed under the WCA and Regulations, and may also be listed under the

Forest & Range Practices Act (FRPA), Invasive Plant Regulation.

A list of the plants currently listed as invasive under the FRPA, Invasive Plant Regulation, are

shown in Table 2.

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Table 2: Plants Currently Designated as Invasive Under the BC Forest and Range Practices Act,

Invasive Plants Regulation (January 31, 2014)

Anchusa Baby’s Breath Black Knapweed

Blueweed Brown Knapweed Bull Thistle

Canada Thistle Common Burdock Common Tansy

Dalmation Toadflax Diffuse Knapweed Field Scabious

Giant Knotweed Gorse Hoary Alyssum

Hoary Cress Hound’s Tongue Japanese Knotweed

Leafy Spurge Marsh Thistle Meadow Hawkweed

Meadow Knapweed Nodding Thistle Orange Hawkweed

Oxeye Daisy Perennial Pepperweed Plumeless Thistle

Puncture Vine Purple Loosestrife Rush Skeletonweed

Russian Knapweed Scentless Chamomile Scotch Broom

Scotch Thistle Spotteed Knapweed St. John’s Wort

Sulphur Cinquefoil Tansy Ragwort Teasel

Yellow Iris Yellow Starthistle Yellow Toadflax

In the context of this PMP, the term “invasive plant” will be used to include both

invasive plants and noxious weeds.

2.1 Plant General Characteristics

Invasive plants have varying characteristics that permit them to rapidly invade new areas

and out-compete native plants for light, water, and nutrients. Some of these characteristics

include:

Early maturation;

Profuse reproduction by seeds and/or vegetative structures;

Specially adapted seeds to assist their movement by wind, water or wildlife;

Prickles, spines, thorns, or sap that can cause physical injury and repel animals;

The ability to parasitize other plants;

Production of chemicals that inhibit the growth of other plants (allelopathy); and,

High photosynthetic rates.

2.2 How Invasive Plants Are Spread

Problems caused by invasive species have increased dramatically in recent decades, due in

part to growth and spread of human populations. Population growth leads to greater

disturbance of the land, increased demand for food and fiber, overuse of public land for

recreation and commercial production, increased international travel, and globalization of

world trade. All of these encourage the introduction, establishment, and spread of invasive

plant species.

Although wind, water, domestic and wild animals can disperse invasive plant seeds,

human activity is often the dominant cause of invasive plant introductions and/or spread.

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Invasive plants are introduced and spread by the following activities:

Construction and maintenance: movement and transportation of soil and fill on

highways, secondary roads, utility corridors, rail lines, pipe lines and power lines;

Forestry operations: road/landing/skid trail building and maintenance, machinery

movement during harvesting, post-harvest site preparation, and log hauling;

Range management activities: over-grazing, herding livestock, construction of stock

trails, water developments, fences and corrals;

Mining operations: road building and maintenance, movement of machinery, creation

of permanent openings in the forest canopy;

Horticultural practices: importing and planting species which over time become

invasive, careless disposal of garden refuse, and unintentional seed introduction in

soil; and

Recreation activities: disturbance of soil by all-terrain and other vehicles, spread of

invasive plants by vehicles, boats, camping equipment and clothing.

2.3 The Need to Control Invasive Plants

Invasive plants are able to establish quickly and out-compete native plants, some of which

are rare and endangered. Many invasive plants have short life cycles, while others are

extremely long-lived (e.g. broom, gorse and holly may live for 50 years or more, and their

seed bank may remain viable for decades). This allows such plants to germinate, grow

and set seed while environmental conditions are favourable. Some invasive plant species

increase their advantage over native species by producing toxins that inhibit the growth or

establishment of other plants. Because they are introduced, these species have no natural

predators in these environments, thus giving them a further advantage over native species.

Because of the above traits, invasive plants have the ability to outcompete native plants,

which can result in large, dense infestations that may cause the following ecological,

social and economic problems:

Competing with native vegetation for light, moisture and nutrients:

Causing declines in biodiversity;

Altering nutrient and hydrological cycles;

Reducing soil productivity by affecting mychorrizal fungi or changing or changing

chemistry (allelopathic chemicals);

Negatively affecting the habitats of rare and endangered species;

Reducing the quality and quantity of forage for grazing and browsing wildlife and

livestock;

Reducing food supplies for many plant-feeding insects;

Decreasing water quality and fish habitat;

Changing ecological community structure and function;

Increasing wildfire hazard;

Dominating sites for prolonged periods after establishment (altering the ecosystem

components); and,

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Costs to rehabilitate disturbed ecosystems.

3.0 Problem Vegetation

Within the context of this PMP, problem vegetation may include herbaceous broadleaf and grass

species, woody tree species (conifers and deciduous), and shrub species.

Problem vegetation that are growing within facilities, growing adjacent to their perimeter fences,

or on access roads leading into the facility, may have to be controlled or removed for the

following reasons:

Large trees (especially deciduous) and shrubs can deposit organic debris into the

facilities, compromise facility security by improving access over the perimeter fences,

and can create safety and fire hazards if they grow too close to equipment. Large trees

can also restrict visibility and inhibit site access if not removed from access roads, and

could be spread by vehicles and personnel to non-infested areas;

To remove hazard (danger) trees from the perimeter areas around a facility. A hazard

tree is defined as a tree that is in imminent danger of falling onto the perimeter fence or

into the facility (and limiting access for maintenance, repair, emergencies, and the

conducting of patrols and inspections);

Herbaceous broadleaf and grass species and shrubs can grow through/entwine perimeter

chain link fencing (thus providing a seed source for new growth within the facility), can

increase the fire hazard, and can serve as shelter for structural insect pests and rodents;

and,

Invasive plants growing anywhere within the facility, including around perimeter fences,

may have to be removed to comply with provisions of the BC WCA and Regulations and

FRPA, Invasive Plant Regulation.

Generally, problem vegetation growing within a 1 meter strip around perimeter fences will be

managed for the reasons outlined above.

4.0 The TNRD Integrated Invasive Plant and Problem

Vegetation Management Program

This section deals specifically with managing invasive plants and problem vegetation on

specific properties that are directly controlled by the TNRD using the principles of IPM.

4.1 Goal and Objectives

4.1.1 Goal

The goal of the TNRD invasive plant and problem vegetation management

program is to manage and control invasive plants and problem vegetation

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on properties that they directly control to reduce their impact. This goal

will be accomplished through the following objectives:

4.1.2 Objectives

Increase awareness of their invasive plant and problem vegetation

management programs through educational initiatives;

Contribute to a shared invasive plant inventory and database of

problem areas;

Encourage the public to report invasive plant and problem vegetation

sightings;

Categorize invasive plants and prioritize sites for control;

Prevent the establishment of invasive plant species not currently

within the TNRD, and prevent or minimize the spread of those

invasive plant species already present; and,

Coordinate invasive plant and problem vegetation preventative

programs, control activities and responsibilities with adjacent private

landowners.

4.2 Elements of the TNRD Integrated Invasive Plant and

Problem Vegetation Management Program

The elements of the TNRD integrated invasive plant and problem vegetation

management program are:

Planning and managing ecosystems to prevent organisms from becoming pests (i.e.

Prevention);

Identifying pest problems and potential pest problems;

Monitoring populations of pests and beneficial organisms; damage caused by pests

and environmental conditions;

Using injury (treatment) thresholds in making treatment decisions,

Suppressing pest populations to tolerable levels using strategies based on

consideration of biological, physical, cultural, mechanical, behavioural and chemical

controls in appropriate combinations and environmental and human health protection

(i.e. Pest Treatment Options and Treatment Method Selection); and,

Evaluating the effectiveness of pest management strategies.

Each of the above IPM elements form an integral part of TNRD integrated invasive plant

and problem vegetation management program, and are discussed in detail later in this

document.

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4.3 Prevention (Planning)

Preventing the initial establishment and spread of invasive plants and problem vegetation

is the single, most effective, and often most overlooked method of their control. Vectors

of invasive plant and some species of problem vegetation spread (seeds and plant parts)

include, but are not limited to, wind, water, wildlife, livestock and man. The natural

vectors are very difficult, if not impossible, to control. When man is the vector, however,

negligence or a lack of understanding are the key contributors to their spread.

Consequently, education is an essential component of successful, long-term control, and is

a key preventative element in the TNRD vegetation management program.

For many years, the TNRD has promoted the development, production and distribution of

educational materials aimed at increasing public awareness of invasive plants. Brochures

and posters have been developed and distributed on a variety of topics related to invasive

plant control including preventative measures. Educational materials such as the

publications A Guide to the Noxious Weeds of the Thompson-Nicola and Invaders of

Ecosystems have been widely distributed to many recreation, hunting, farming, industrial,

tourist and educational outlets. TNRD staff gives talks, slide presentations, and distribute

pamphlets, the newly developed invasive plant poster, and information fact sheets to

clubs, schools, associations and community groups, and at such events as field days, fall

fairs and cattleman’s meetings.

In addition to education, prevention of invasive plant and problem vegetation spread is

based on maintaining a resistant plant community, limiting soil disturbance, and seeding

soil disturbances when they occur. In this respect, the TNRD actively promotes and

utilizes the following preventative measures:

Preventing the movement of soils contaminated with invasive plant or problem

vegetation seed and vegetative plant parts (e.g. gravel pit material used in road

construction and maintenance, yard and garden waste dumping) from entering

facilities and regional parks;

Keeping facilities free of invasive plants;

Inspecting clothing and vehicle/equipment undercarriages when working in, and prior

to leaving, areas known to contain invasive plants;

Removing (by cleaning or washing) plant seeds or plant parts from clothing and

equipment, dislodging and containing associated water, mud and dirt;

Maintaining a weed-free 1 meter strip around facility perimeter fences;

Keep equipment out of infested areas; and,

Re-vegetate disturbed areas adjacent or known to be at risk to invasive plant

establishment using certified seed.

4.4 Pest Identification

The accurate identification of invasive plants and problem vegetation is important for the

following reasons:

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Control may or may not be required, depending on the plant’s growth stage, physical

location and degree of invasiveness; and,

Control methods may differ depending on the plant species. Some may be easily

controlled by non-chemical methods, but others may only be effectively managed

through a combination of chemical and non-chemical methods.

4.4.1 Available Resources for Invasive Plant Identification

For invasive plant management, it is important to have a basic understanding of

plant biology, including knowledge of growth stages, life cycles and classification,

so that the safest, most appropriate and effective control methods may be used.

There are numerous publications that will assist in the identification of invasive

plants. Fact Sheets (including Weed Alerts), guidebooks and brochures, and web

based information will all assist in the identification, management and control of

invasive plants. The following table indicates the web sites where information on

invasive plant identification can be accessed:

Table 3: Web Sites for Identification of Invasive Plant and Problem Vegetation Species

Min. of Agriculture “Field Guide to

Noxious and Other

Selected Weeds of

British Columbia”

www.agf.gov.bc.ca/cropprot/weedguid/weedguid.htm

Min. FLNRO Tree Identification www.for.gov.bc.ca/hfd/library/documents/treebook/inde

x.htm

E-Flora BC Electronic Atlas of the

plants of BC

www.eflora.bc.ca

WeedsBC Weed Profiles www.weedsbc.ca

Southern Interior

Weed Management

Committee

List of invasive plant

profiles within the

TNRD

www.siwmc.ca

Invasive Species

Council of BC

Fact Sheets on Invasive

Plants

www.bcinvasives.ca

Southern Interior

Weed Management

Committee

“Invasive Plants of the

Southern Interior BC”

Hard copies available from SIWMC or the TNRD

4.5 Monitoring Program for Invasive Plants and

Problem Vegetation

Designing an effective invasive plant and problem vegetation management program requires

an understanding of the regional and local characteristics of the management area. Factors

such as the location of environmentally sensitive areas, invasive plant and problem

vegetation species and their abundance, and the general site conditions are important for

selecting the best method(s) of management. In this respect, baseline information and

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inventories drive the development of annual work plans and priority setting, and factors into

the monitoring program.

TNRD staff and/or their contractors, monitor for problem vegetation on or adjacent to

their facilities (including danger trees), and for invasive plants at their facilities.

Monitoring provides a record of information about invasive plant and problem vegetation

occurrence and density, and site conditions. Monitoring also includes recording

information on changes to species composition, distribution, and density over time, as well

as changes to adjacent plant communities that could invade the facility.

4.5.1 Monitoring Methods

Monitoring is generally carried out on foot or by vehicle, depending on the terrain.

Monitoring normally consists of a visual inspection, where the density, location

and type of vegetation present are documented (e.g. invasive plant species or

species of problem vegetation observed).

4.5.2 Frequency of Monitoring

All facilities are monitored as necessary throughout the growing season by TNRD

staff and/or their contractors. The objective of the regular monitoring of sites is to

watch for potential invasive plant occurrences or presence of problem vegetation

that may require treatment. Each site must be assessed before a treatment decision

is made.

4.5.3 Data Collected During Invasive Plant

Monitoring

The data that is collected during invasive plant monitoring includes, as

appropriate, the following:

Invasive plant species by common name;

Invasive plant category (rank code);

Distribution (ranked from single occurrence to dense occurrence);

Site priority ranking;

Density of the invasive plants (low, medium or high, based on the

number of plants per square meter); and,

Site soil conditions (e.g. coarse grained, fine grained, organic soils).

In addition to the above, the TNRD also frequently receives information from the

general public (based on its’ educational initiatives) on the locations of new

invasive plant infestations. These locations are then visited and monitored by

TNRD staff and/or their contractors on a regular basis.

Confirmed invasive plant sightings are incorporated into the Invasive Alien Plant

Program (IAPP) Application, administered by the BC Ministry of Forests, Lands

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and Natural Resource Operations (FLNRO). This comprehensive database

contains and allows for extraction of relational (data and statistics) and spatial

(mapping) information, and can be accessed at the following web site:

http://www.for.gov.bc.ca/hra/Plants/application.htm

4.5.4 Data Collected During Problem Vegetation

Monitoring

Problem vegetation occurrence, location (e.g. along perimeter fences), and

density/height are the primary parameters observed during the monitoring of

facilities. During monitoring, each site will be visually assessed to determine if

treatments are necessary, and, if treatments are deemed necessary, on the timing of

the treatments. The monitoring that is done at each site is visual, with the results

recorded. The percentage weed cover is used to determine the Treatment

Threshold (the level above which treatment is warranted).

4.6 Injury Thresholds and Treatment Decisions

for Invasive Plants

In order to effectively and efficiently carry out an invasive plant management

program, it is necessary to:

Categorize the invasive plants; and,

Prioritize sites.

The TNRD has generally adopted a system of categorizing invasive plant species based on a

system established and used successfully by FLNRO and other regional districts.

Table 4 details what category rating is placed on the various invasive plant species found within the

TNRD, and also describes the rating system used to rate an invasive plant site. Category

rating and site ranking are tools used to determine the frequency of monitoring and to assist

in determining what control strategy should be implemented to deal with the infestation.

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Table 4: Categories of Invasive Plant Species of Current Priority in within the TNRD

CATEGORY 1 CATEGORY 2 CATEGORY 3 CATEGORY 4 Leafy spurge Blueweed Bull thistle

Marsh plume thistle Bull thistle Burdock spp.

Perennial pepperweed Dalmation toadflax Scentless chamomile

Rush skeletonweed Diffuse knapweed

Spotted knapweed Field scabious

Sulphur cinquefoil Hoary alyssum

Yellow starthistle Hound’s-tongue Hoary alyssum Scotch thistle

Category 1 - invasive plants in this category are extremely invasive and often are the most

abundant species in the area. These weeds can be very hard to eradicate.

Category 2 - invasive plants in this category are very invasive and can become very prevalent in

an area. These species are also very hard to eradicate.

Category 3 - invasive plants in this category are invasive, but often require some disturbance to

establish.

Category 4 - invasive plants in this category are aggressive and relatively easy to control.

Native plants that behave in a weedy manner are typically in this category.

The above system of categorizing invasive plants helps with decisions in allocating

resources for determining control options. A further refinement is to prioritize sites.

Some of the newly arrived invasive plant species infest only a few sites within the TNRD.

Because of regular monitoring, these sites have generally been kept small or eliminated.

With available resources, it is feasible to keep some invasive plant species from spreading

further within the regional district through the use of preventative measures (as discussed

earlier) and by quickly detecting and controlling new infestations that are located by

regular monitoring.

Some invasive plant species have been observed within TNRD boundaries for a number of

years, and have become established at some sites covering large areas. Due to the size and

number of these infested sites, it is necessary to prioritize them for control. The location

of these sites, including their proximity to adjacent areas of high resource value, is

normally assessed through site inspections as part of the monitoring program. This assists

in making treatment decisions for their control.

The TNRD generally uses a system to determine site priorities based on the system

currently being used province-wide by FLNRO. This system is described in Table 5.

TNRD Invasive Plant and Problem Vegetation PMP

October 24, 2014 14

Table 5: Invasive Plant Site Priorities Within the TNRD

PRIORITY PURPOSE OR INTENT OF TREATMENT

1 Extremely High Risk To stop the spread of invasive plants threatening non-infested, highly

susceptible areas. These sites are generally < 0.25 hectares, and are widely

separated by distance or physical barrier from the infestation site. These sites

have a high probability of control. Sites where economies or livelihoods are

threatened (e.g., agricultural producing areas) are included in this category

2 High Risk To stop the enlargement of sites in highly susceptible areas. These sites are ≤

0.5 hectares, and must have a good probability of control.

3 Moderate Risk To stop the enlargement of sites of ≥ 0.5 hectares in moderately susceptible

areas. These sites must have a good probability of control.

4 Low Risk To stop the enlargement/contain sites in moderately susceptible areas of ≥ 0.5

hectares. These sites must have a good probability of control.

Using the Invasive Plant Categories and Plant Site Priorities, the TNRD shall generally

define he various injury thresholds for their invasive plant program. This is outlined in

Table 6.

Table 6: Injury Thresholds for the TNRD Invasive Plant Program

Invasive Plant Category Site Priority Treatment Priority

1 1 Priority 1

1 2 Priority 2

2 1 Priority 3

2 2 Priority 4

3 1 Priority 5

3 2 Priority 6

All 3 Priority 7

All 4 Priority 8

As Table 6 shows, the priority assigned to an invasive plant infestation is determined by the

category of the site priority. For example, sulphur cinquefoil (Category 1) found in a new,

small area (Priority Rank 1) would be ranked 1-1, or an extremely invasive plant in an

extremely high-risk site. Control of this infestation would be given a Priority 1 for treatment.

It must be recognized that invasive plant priorities may change as new species are identified

as being detrimental to biodiversity, natural plant communities (e.g. adjacent ornamental

species or native non-target species), adjacent agricultural land, or as land use changes.

Invasive plant species may also be assigned different priorities based on their location. For

these reasons, there may be circumstances where the TNRD will deviate from the above

categorization and site prioritization system in implementing control measures.

TNRD Invasive Plant and Problem Vegetation PMP

October 24, 2014 15

Initially, all sites are normally inspected annually. A site is categorized as a Priority 1 or 2

(from Table 4) will generally be inspected and monitored monthly and quarterly. Sites that

have been treated (by pesticide, mechanically, or by biological control agent releases) will be

inspected during treatment and again to undertake a post-treatment evaluation. Invasive plants

still growing on the sites that have received pesticide treatment may be treated manually by

hand pulling. These pesticide treated sites will also be assessed on an annual basis to

determine the long-term effectiveness of the treatment and to continue manual control

methods until the site can be declared to be invasive plant free. The abundance of the invasive

plant population (percentage cover by area, for example) and any visual damage to non-target

species as a result of the pesticide treatment will also be documented during each inspection

and monitoring visit.

4.7 Injury Thresholds and Treatment Decisions

for Problem Vegetation at Facilities

Treatment of vegetation at TNRD facilities is required when the vegetation reaches a

certain level. This level is termed the injury threshold (also called an action or treatment

threshold). There are no legislated standards related to treatment (injury) thresholds for

industrial sites such as TNRD facilities. The following information on treatment (injury)

thresholds has been derived from generally accepted industry standards for vegetation

management in British Columbia and Alberta.

4.7.1 How Treatment (Injury) Thresholds are Chosen

The treatment (injury) threshold is generally the level of surface vegetation cover,

expressed as a percentage of the total area, that can be tolerated and still maintain

integrity, security and safety within the facility. Any percentage vegetation cover

above the established threshold requires a vegetation management action or decision.

Treatment (injury) thresholds will vary, since vegetation control is more critical for

certain areas within a facility than others. They are generally specific to all species of

vegetation (e.g., under and alongside perimeter fencing and adjacent to structures

within the facility, where there is a low tolerance for all vegetation growth). In some

instances, the level of surface weed coverage cannot be used to determine if the

treatment (injury) threshold has been reached. For specific weed species growing

adjacent to facilities ( such as tall-growing tree or shrub species that may

compromise perimeter security and perimeter fencing, increase the risk of fire,

compromise safety), factors such as the likelihood of the tree or shrub falling onto,

buildings or equipment may be used to determine at what point the injury threshold

has been reached. Consequently, the level of control required is determined by:

The amount (density) of vegetation;

Specific species of problem vegetation; and

Risk categories.

Amount of Vegetation

In areas where tolerance for vegetation is low, the treatment (injury) threshold is

TNRD Invasive Plant and Problem Vegetation PMP

October 24, 2014 16

determined by the total of the amount of vegetation and dead organic matter

present at the site. This amount is specific to certain defined areas within a facility.

For example, areas within or adjacent to an electrical sub-station, fuel storage

areas, and storage buildings for flammable materials, fuel and relief tank would

have a lower action threshold than gravel parking areas, access roads and vacant

areas. A vegetation management action may be taken when the action threshold for

a particular facility or defined area within a facility has been exceeded.

Specific Species of Problem Vegetation

Along access roads and outside fence perimeters, specific, high-risk vegetation

species will be managed. These species will be selectively controlled in a manner

that minimizes the disturbance to adjacent low-risk vegetation species. The

exception would be height and density of certain vegetative species that are

causing a fire hazard if not controlled.

Risk Categories

Some types of vegetation can cause more damage than others. The degree of risk

will depend on the management objectives for a particular area. Risk criteria will

generally be based on the following:

High Risk

All woody and tree species, noxious weeds and invasive plants, and difficult to

control species are placed in the high risk category because some species of

vegetation:

Could grow into or around sensitive equipment (system safety and fire

hazard) or could damage equipment by falling (trees);

Must be controlled as mandated by the BC Weed Control Act and

Regulations, if an inspector under this act deems the presence of the

Invasive plants to be a threat to adjacent agricultural areas;

Are aggressively growing and could compromise site security by

growing through fencing; and,

Will increase the amount of organic matter on the site, are deep-rooted

species, or are difficult to control.

Low Risk

The growth of low risk species of vegetation is beneficial in certain areas within

and adjacent to facilities. Low risk species include low growing herbaceous

grasses and forbs (broadleaf herbs) and moss. Benefits of maintaining low risk

vegetation growing outside of fences and in certain areas within facilities

include:

Providing plant competition against the establishment of

TNRD Invasive Plant and Problem Vegetation PMP

October 24, 2014 17

aggressively growing species;

Reducing soil erosion; and,

Absorbing ground water flowing from inside the facility.

Allowing low risk vegetation to establish in vacant areas within facilities also

effectively reduces the overall gravel area requiring vegetation management.

Moss growing on gravel areas can also provide plant competition against

vegetation species.

4.8 Treatment Options

IPM involves the use of different techniques to control invasive plants and problem

vegetation. The selection of a particular technique will depend on:

Timing;

Site characteristics including land use, proximity to water sources, bodies of water,

soil type and other environmentally sensitive features;

Environmental sensitivities in surrounding areas;

The species of invasive plant or problem vegetation;

Safety, economic impacts and site accessibility;

Species composition on the site and percentage cover; and,

The consequences of not treating.

When treatment thresholds are met or surpassed, the IPM techniques proposed for use

under this PMP for invasive plant and problem vegetation control following treatment

option or options will be considered:

Physical control (non-chemical);

Cultural control (non-chemical);

Use of biological control agents (non-chemical); and,

Selective and spot application of pesticides (chemical).

4.8.1 Physical Control Methods (Non-Chemical)

Physical control methods of invasive plant and problem vegetation management

are effective and environmentally safe methods if timed correctly, and precautions

are taken to minimize soil disturbance and native vegetation loss. These methods

are not practical for large areas, and alternative methods may have to be applied.

Physical control methods that may be used in include:

Selective slashing;

Hand pulling;

Hand cutting;

Use of weed trimmers;

Mowing; and;

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October 24, 2014 18

Pruning.

Table 7 provides a description and rationale, and the benefits and limitations of

each of these physical methods:

Table 7 Description and Rationale, Benefits and Limitations of Physical Treatment Methods

Description & Rationale Benefits/Limitations Selective Slashing is manual treatment for

managing problem vegetation (i.e., woody

tree and shrub species) using tools such as

chain saws, brush saws and axes. Woody

vegetation is most commonly found

encroaching outside of facility perimeter

fences. Selective slashing of certain

deciduous species is sometimes combined

with a follow-up pesticide treatment to

reduce re-sprout from the cut stump.

The advantages of selective slashing are that it is selective. The

disadvantages are that use of power tools to fall trees can pose safety

hazards, is expensive and labour intensive.

Hand Pulling is a viable physical control

only for certain established invasive plant

species, young tree seedlings and clumps of

grass where the roots can be fully removed.

It is effective if the number of weeds to be

pulled is small and the site is a manageable

size. TNRD staff and their contractors are

encouraged to hand pull invasive plants

around facilities. If invasive plants are hand

pulled before or early into bloom, the stems

can be crimped and the plants left on site. If

the plants are hand pulled during fall bloom

or later, then they are normally placed in

heavy gauge plastic bags and disposed of in a

manner, such as incineration, that will

prevent re-seeding.

Is effective on tap-rooted invasive plants when the size of the

infestation is small and the soils are amenable to hand pulling. It is

generally not effective for managing most types of problem

vegetation. It is an effective and environmentally safe method if

timed correctly and precautions are taken to minimize soil

disturbance and native vegetation loss in the treatment area. It is

sometimes the only available technique for invasive plant control in

areas where pesticides cannot be used (e.g. first option to be

considered when in close proximity to environmentally sensitive

features). Is sometimes an effective approach to reduce invasive

plants or reduce their movement off-site. It is rarely used when

eradication of invasive plants is the goal, but can weaken the

population and/or reduce their spread to new sites. The limitations of

hand pulling are that it normally needs to be done for several years to

eliminate invasive plants from a site, as there is usually a seed bank.

It is not efficient once an infestation involves thousands of plants, or

for rhizomatous plants such as Canada thistle, as it tends to break up

the rhizomes and stimulates plant growth. On soils that are hard

packed in dry conditions, it frequently results in the upper portion of

the plant breaking off, leaving the crown intact and able to re-grow.

If the invasive plants are growing adjacent to a body of water, it is

often the method chosen. Uprooting invasive plants, however, can

cause soil disturbances along the body of water and lead to siltation.

On steep slopes with fine textured soils, it can destabilize the slope,

and it can provide an improved seed bed for invasive plant re-

infestation in any soil or aspect.

Hand Cutting is used in areas such as around

facilities. The most effective time for these

methods is generally in the late bud or early

bloom stage, when the plants have used up

most of the carbohydrate reserves in their

roots.

Can sometimes be an effective approach to reducing invasive plant

populations or reducing off site movement. Proper use will

generally effectively eliminate the current year’s seed production

and significantly reduce the plant’s root reserves that contribute to

the next year’s growth. It is generally not effective for managing

most types of problem vegetation.

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October 24, 2014 19

Weed-Trimming at the ground surface can

be used in areas such as around perimeter

fences to manage problem vegetation or

invasive plants, at low priority sites, for

removing herbaceous vegetation growing on

gravel areas and along access roads.

When done early in the season, weed trimming helps to remove seed

heads. It does not remove roots and has only limited effectiveness

against weed species that reproduce from stem pieces. A common

two-step procedure within gravel areas combining weed trimming

with a follow-up pesticide application is effective in managing weed

growth while removing organic matter. Weeds are cut down, raked

up along with the organic matter, bagged and removed off site for

disposal. The cut portions of the vegetation that remain on the gravel

surface are then treated with an appropriate pesticide.

Mowing is the cutting of problem vegetation,

primarily grasses or other low growing

herbaceous species. Vegetation will be

mowed using commercial lawnmowers,

garden tractors or industrial tractors.

Mowing is useful for maintaining vacant or undeveloped areas within

a facility. Vacant areas are those that have no electrical facilities or

equipment storage, or have been designated for future expansion.

The surface of the vacant areas may be covered with grass or other

low growing herbaceous vegetation and is maintained only by

mowing. Vegetation should be mowed prior to developing seed

heads, to reduce the seed source available for dispersal to other areas

of low weed tolerance within the facility.

Pruning is useful for the selective removal

of limbs and branches from large native trees

and domestic shrubs growing on perimeter

fencing. Tree pruning can be used where tree

removal may not be appropriate. In

residential areas, pruning is often a more

acceptable method of controlling problem

vegetation than other manual/mechanical

techniques.

Pruning is useful for the removal of selected branches from trees

encroaching facility perimeter fences (i.e., problem vegetation). The

advantage of pruning using proper arboriculture practices is that

causes very minimal disturbance to the surrounding environment.

Disposal of Invasive Plants/Plant Parts following Physical

Treatments

Proper disposal of invasive plants or invasive plant parts following manual or

mechanical control is very important. As a general rule, invasive plants, plant parts

and seeds should be bagged and disposed of in a landfill or other designated disposal

site. Information on proper disposal for specific invasive plant species can be found

at the Invasive Species Council of BC web site: http://www.bcinvasives.ca

4.8.2 Cultural Control Methods (Non-Chemical)

Seeding (re-vegetation), irrigation and fertilization, and targeted grazing are

examples of cultural control methods of invasive plant management that may be

considered within this PMP.

Table 8 provides a description and rationale, and the benefits and limitations of

each of these cultural control methods:

TNRD Invasive Plant and Problem Vegetation PMP

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Table 8 Description and Rationale, Benefits and Limitations of Cultural Treatment Methods

Description & Rationale Benefits/Limitations Grass Seeding refers to the manual planting of

turf or agricultural grasses. This method is used

to reduce the establishment of broad-leaved

weeds with rapidly spreading airborne seeds.

Proactively re-vegetating disturbed areas/bare

ground adjacent or known to be at risk to

invasive plant establishment using certified seed

will reduce the risk of invasive plant

establishment. The TNRD has a practice of

seeding of disturbed areas with acceptable or

approved seed sources. It is generally not

effective for managing most types of problem

vegetation.

The advantages of using grass seeding are that it prevents

erosion, inhibits weed growth and promotes aesthetics.

When combined with other control methods, seeding can

be very effective in checking the spread of invasive plant

populations. Seeding appropriate competitive forage

species or erosion control mixes after the invasive plants

have been controlled can result in reduced levels of re-

infestation. The limitations of grass seeding and planting

grasses are that it requires continued maintenance (i.e.

mowing), does not provide a stable plant community

because unwanted species may invade, and the sustained

promotion of grasses as a monoculture in forested areas

may pose a fire hazard if there are insufficient numbers

of grazing animals.

Irrigation and Fertilization refers to the fact

that invasive plants, like other plants, respond

positively to increased water and nutrients. The

key to using irrigation and fertilization as tools

for effective invasive plant control is to first

control the invasive plants and then use

irrigation and fertilization to promote the growth

of competing vegetation. The TNRD shall

promote the use of irrigation and fertilization

whenever practical. It is generally not effective

for managing most types of problem vegetation.

Irrigation and fertilizing following the seeding of

appropriate competitive forage species or erosion control

mixes can result in reduced levels of invasive plant

establishment by increasing competition. In order to

effective, however, the invasive plants must have been

eliminated from a site prior to the use of irrigation and

fertilization.

Targeted Grazing involves using cattle, goats

or sheep for invasive plant control. The TNRD

supports this method of managing invasive

plants. It is generally not effective for managing

most types of problem vegetation.

Targeted grazing has several advantages. It may be

economical, may retard plant development and seed

formation and will gradually deplete root reserves

because the tops of young plants are continuously grazed,

and may be a viable option for control of certain species

of invasive plants in areas where manual or mechanical

methods or pesticides cannot be used.

Some of the limitations of targeted grazing include are

that the “non-selective ” nature of grazing may result in

removal of desirable vegetation in conjunction with

targeted invasive plants, that multiple treatments are

necessary and their timing is critical, that they may create

additional soil disturbance and compaction (wet soils),

and that animal husbandry and transportation costs can

be prohibitive.

TNRD Invasive Plant and Problem Vegetation PMP

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4.8.3 Biological Control Agents (Non Chemical)

Biological control involves using host-specific organisms to reduce a pest population

to an acceptable ecological and economic level. Agents are predominantly insects and

are introduced when and where it is appropriate to reduce invasive plant populations.

They attack and weaken target invasive plant species and over time reduce plant

density. This treatment option is most often used to assist in rehabilitation of infested

areas. A complete list of biological control agents operationally used and of agents

under development is available on-line at:

http://www.for.gov.bc.ca/hra/Plants/biocontrol/Agent-plant_matrix.htm

Table 9 provides a description and rationale, and the benefits and limitations of each

of these bio-control treatment methods:

Table 9 Description and Rationale, Benefits and Limitations of Bio-Control Treatment Methods

Description & Rationale Benefits/Limitations

Biological Control involves the introduction of

pests and parasites specific to certain invasive

plant species. There are no biological control

agents for species of problem vegetation. Most

invasive plants arrived in North America as

seeds, and therefore without the biological agents

that regulated them. Agents (mainly insects) are

searched out and screened to ensure that they will

attack and weaken only the targeted invasive

plants. The agents reduce the vigour of the

invasive plants and suppress their competitive

ability against desirable plant species. FLNRO is

the primary agency involved in the screening and

propagation of biological control agents. The

TNRD has been an active participant in the

release of biological control agents since 1992.

The TNRD carries out numerous of releases of

biological control agents at numerous sites

annually. In addition, the TNRD provides almost

50% of the funding for the release programs

carried out by the SIWMC. The TNRD commits

to continuing with the funding and release of

biological control agents when and where

appropriate to reduce invasive plant populations.

The release of biological control agents has proven effective to

reduce pesticide use and also achieve long-term control on sites

with well-established invasive species populations. Release of

bio-control agents are typically utilized in areas where invasive

plant infestations and distribution are too extensive to be reduced

effectively by other treatment methods. Once established, they

provide an inexpensive, long-term, and non-toxic means to

control weed populations. Field releasing is relatively

inexpensive and scheduling with other duties keeps release and

monitoring costs low. It can be effective in reducing the growth

and spread of invasive plants, usually over a number of years,

when used in combination with other integrated pest management

techniques. They can reduce invasive plant populations below a

level where significant environmental or economic damage

occurs. After their introduction, bio-control agents can take 5 to

10 years to become established and increase to numbers large

enough to cause damage to the target plants, and on-going

monitoring is required to determine establishment, dispersal and

impact on invasive plant populations. Releases do not result in

elimination of the invasive plant species from sites. Bio-controls

are not available for all invasive plant species. Biological control

agents are generally not effective when used at small sites with a

low density of invasive of invasive plants, and/or where adjacent

property owners or agencies are not involved in the cooperative

control effort.

4.8.4 Selective and Spot Application of Pesticides

A pesticide is a term given to a pesticide used to manage or control unwanted

plants. In the context of this PMP, pesticides may be used to control or manage

invasive plants and problem vegetation as one of the control options in the TNRD

IPM program.

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October 24, 2014 22

Pesticides proposed for targeting invasive plants and problem vegetation within

this PMP is listed in Table 10:

Table 10: Pesticide Active Ingredients/Examples of Trade Names Proposed for Invasive Plant

and Problem Vegetation Management

Active Ingredient Examples of Trade Name Proposed Use aminocyclopyrachor Navius (with metsulfuron-methyl) Invasive Plant and Problem Vegetation

aminopyralid Milestone, Clearview (with metsulfuron-

methyl)

Invasive Plant

clopyralid Lontrel 360 Invasive Plant

dicamba Banvel II, Vanquish Invasive Plant and Problem Vegetation

diflufenzopyr Overdrive (with dicamba) Invasive Plant and Problem Vegetation

diuron Diurex 80 WDG Problem Vegetation

flumioxazin Payload Problem Vegetation

glyphosate Roundup, Vantage Plus Max, Vantage

XRT

Invasive Plant and Problem Vegetation

imazapyr Arsenal Problem Vegetation

metsulfuron-methyl Escort, Clearview (with aminopyralid) Invasive Plant

2,4-D amine 2,4-D Amine 500, 2,4-D Amine 600,

Restore B

Invasive Plant

triclopyr Garlon RTU, Garlon 4 Ultra Invasive Plant and Problem Vegetation

Hasten* Adjuvant/surfactant

*Hasten is an adjuvant (surfactant). Adjuvants and surfactants are chemicals or agents that are sometimes

added to herbicide spray mix to allow easier mixing, and to assist in the spreading of the herbicide

spray mix and the wetting of, and adherence to, the surface of the plants being treated. This has been

shown to decrease the possibility of drift (the movement of the applied material away from the intended

target to adjacent areas by wind). Some adjuvants and surfactants may also be used to adjust the pH of

the herbicide spray mix. Spray mixes that are highly or mildly alkaline (i.e. pH greater than 7) have

been shown to break down (degrade) or hydrolyze more rapidly, reducing the effectiveness of the

herbicide being applied. If required, surfactant/adjuvant products may be added to the herbicide active

ingredients proposed for use under this PMP.

All pesticide applications under this PMP will be:

Selective or spot foliar or wick/wipe-on applications to targeted invasive

plants; or;

By foliar, cut surface, or wick/wipe-on applications to targeted problem

vegetation.

4.8.5 Pesticide Use Patterns

The pesticides intended for use under this PMP are described in Table 11.

Pesticide selection is driven first by the conditions of the site, and secondly by the

target species.

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Table 11: Properties and Use Patterns of the Pesticide Active Ingredients Proposed for Use

Pesticide Active

Ingredient

Properties and Use Patterns Proposed

Use

aminopyralid Is a selective, residual pesticide that gives season-long control when used at label

application rates. It is a synthetic enzyme, which functions by its systemic mode of

action. It is absorbed by both leaves and roots, and translocates throughout the plant. It

is a selective pesticide because the active ingredient does not cause significant mortality

or impacts on tree and brush species or grasses. This allows for treatment under tree

canopies and through native brush species. It is useful for spot treatment control or

suppression of many invasive plant species, including biennial and perennial thistles,

knapweeds, oxeye daisy, yellow starthistle, scentless chamomile, sulphur cinquefoil,

tansy ragwort, yellow starthistle and common tansy. It is effective only on actively

growing plants. Its’ systemic and residual properties effectively controls invasive

plants at multiple growth stages.

Invasive

Plants

aminocyclopyrachor Aminocyclopyrachlor is combined with the herbicide active ingredient metsulfuron-

methyl to form the product Navius VM herbicide. Navius is a dispersible granule

mixed in water and applied as a selective, foliar spray for control of undesirable brush

and woody species in non-crop areas. It is quickly taken up by the leaves, stems and

roots and translocated throughout the plant. Visible effects (bending and twisting of

stems and leaves) may be seen on plants within a few hours of application.

Invasive

Plants

and

Problem

Vegetation

clopyralid Is a selective, residual pesticide that is useful for the spot treatment control of many

species of broadleaf invasive plants. It is effective only on actively growing plants. It

is effective for the control of Canada thistle, oxeye daisy, perennial sowthistle, wild

buckwheat, common groundsel, common ragweed, sheep sorrel, oxeye daisy, and

scentless chamomile. It does not injure woody species such as trees and shrubs when

applied to targeted herbaceous species in close proximity. It can be used in areas where

the over story of trees and shrubs are present at the infestation site and there is a need to

minimize or prevent damage to these non-target plants. For perennial weeds, it will

control the initial top growth and inhibit re-growth during the season of application.

Invasive

Plants

dicamba Is used for the spot treatment of young, actively growing broadleaf vegetation and brush

species. It will control many broadleaf herbaceous species that cannot be effectively

treated using physical controls or glyphosate applications. It can be safely mixed with

other pesticides to broaden the number of target species controlled. Because it is a

selective pesticide, it is useful in areas where grasses are to be retained on the site. It

has been shown to control invasive plants such as Canada thistle, perennial sow thistle,

leafy spurge, common tansy, field bindweed, curled dock, diffuse knapweed, sheep

sorrel and velvetleaf.

Invasive

Plants

and

Problem

Vegetation

diflufenzopyr Is the first active ingredient from a chemical class called semicarbazones. It is low

toxicity to humans, birds, aquatic organisms, mammals and bees. It has low residual

properties. It causes hormones in plants to become concentrated in the growth regions.

When applied with dicamba (Overdrive), it focuses dicamba’s translocation to the high

growth regions, where it delivers effective weed control at reduced dicamba rates and

across a wider range of weed species. It is applied post-emergent to the foliage of target

plants.

Invasive

Plants

and

Problem

Vegetation

diuron Is a non-selective, residual herbicide used to control many annual and perennial grasses

and herbaceous weeds. Is useful in preventing the germination and growth of weed

seedlings when applied to the soil. Diuron requires moisture (minimum 12 mm) to

move it into the root zone. As a result of the moisture requirement for activation, the

effects on weeds are slow to appear and will not become apparent until the diuron has

been absorbed into the plant and leaves. It is applied to the soil and acts both pre-

emergent and post-emergent.

Invasive

Plants

and

Problem

Vegetation

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October 24, 2014 24

flumioxazin Is a residual, soil applied, pre-emergent,non-selective herbicide used to control many annual and

perennial grasses and herbaceous weeds. Is useful in preventing the germination and growth of

weed seedlings when applied to the soil. Flumioxazin requires moisture to move it into the root

zone. As a result of the moisture requirement for activation, the effects on weeds are slow to

appear and will not become apparent until it has been absorbed into the plant and leaves. Dry

weather following application may reduce its effectiveness.

Invasive

Plants

and

Problem

Vegetation

glyphosate Is a non-residual pesticide used to control a very large number of invasive plant species. It is

most effective for spot application on annuals and perennials. It is only effective for treating

invasive plants that have germinated, emerged above the soil, and is actively growing at the time

of spraying. It is most useful in areas where low soil residual is required because of the close

proximity of wells, water bodies and other environmentally sensitive features. It is deactivated

quickly in the soil, where it moves very little from the point of application. For this reason, it is

the pesticide of choice for invasive plant control adjacent to sensitive environmental features.

Because glyphosate kills all vegetation on contact, and since it kills grasses as well as broadleaf

invasive plants, its use is limited in areas where these are not the target vegetation.

Invasive

Plants

and

Problem

Vegetation

imazapyr Is used to control broadleaf weeds, annual and perennial grass species, and woody vegetation. It

is particularly useful in controlling weeds that have not been effectively managed using a

combination of physical control methods and glyphosate application. It can be used both as a

soil-applied residual herbicide and to control established weeds by spot treatment. It works by

preventing germination of weed seeds. It is also readily absorbed through foliage and roots and

moves rapidly throughout the plant where it breaks down tissue.

Invasive

Plants

and

Problem

Vegetation

metsulfuron-

methyl

Is a translocated, non-selective pesticide of moderate persistence used for invasive plant control

in non-crop areas. It is applied as a foliar spray. It rapidly inhibits the growth of susceptible

plants, but typical symptoms (discolouration) may not be noticeable for several weeks after

application, depending on growing conditions and plant susceptibility. Warm, moist conditions

following application promote its activity while dry, cold conditions may reduce or delay

activity. Invasive plants hardened off by cold weather or drought stress may not be controlled.

Degree of control and duration of effect are dependent on the application rate used, sensitivity

and size of the target species, as well as soil moisture and soil temperature. Invasive plants

controlled include common tansy, kochia, scentless chamomile, Canada thistle and sow thistle.

Invasive

Plants

2,4-D Amine Is a selective, non-residual, translocated pesticide that interferes with growth regulation in

invasive plant species. It is most effective when the target plant is growing rapidly, and is more

actively taken up by the foliage than by the roots. The average persistence of 2,4-D in soil is one

to four weeks. Persistence is longer in cold, dry soils. Persistence in the soil may prove

injurious to subsequent crops of sensitive plants. Application equipment must be thoroughly

cleaned with special materials before applying other pesticides to sensitive crops.

Invasive

Plants

triclopyr Is a selective pesticide that controls many invasive broadleaf plants, and is very effective in

controlling many new identified invasive shrubs and deciduous tree species. It works by

accumulating in the areas of active cell growth and interfering with normal plant growth

processes. It is absorbed by green bark, leaves, roots, and cut stem surfaces and moves

throughout the plant.

Invasive

Plants

and

Problem

Vegetation

4.8.6 Pesticide Application Methods/Techniques

Pesticide application methods/techniques will be selected that minimize injury to

non-target plants and soils through spray drift and leaching in soils. Pesticides

have been shown to be effective for invasive plant or problem vegetation control at

application rates recommended on the label. Lower application rates may be used

to protect certain values, such as impacts to the environment. Lower application

rates may be employed under this PMP for invasive plant or problem vegetation

control when shown to be effective. At no time will pesticides be applied at

application rates higher than those specified on their respective labels.

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Table 12 provides a description and rationale, and the benefits and limitations of each

of the application methods/techniques for invasive plant and problem vegetation

management.

Table 12 Description and Rationale, Benefits and Limitations of Pesticide Application

Methods/Techniques for Invasive Plant and Problem Vegetation Management

Description & Rationale Benefits/Limitations Foliar applications involve use of a manually

operated pressurized backpack sprayer, handgun

(power hose and nozzle), or a vehicle mounted

sprayer (boom or boomless). Foliar applications can

be used to apply all of the active ingredients

proposed for use. This method/technique is most

effective when the target vegetation is actively

growing.

Foliar applications can be carried out at any time of the year,

provided the targeted vegetation (invasive plant or problem

vegetation) is actively growing. As foliar applications are

susceptible to drift, caution must be exercised around

desirable plants and environmentally sensitive areas. If non-

selective pesticides are being applied, they will control both

the targeted vegetation and desirable plants that are growing

among them.

Wick-Wipe-on applications involve the use of a

wick soaked with the active ingredient glyphosate

that is wiped or dragged over the foliage of the

targeted vegetation (invasive plant or problem

vegetation). The wick applicators are available in

various materials and in many sizes. This technique

will generally be used where cut stumps have re-

sprouted, or for treating small patches of vegetation

in areas where no drift can be tolerated. The active

ingredient glyphosate may be applied using this

method/technique.

This application technique virtually eliminates drift, and is

useful for the safe and effective treatment of individual plans

or stems located in areas of desirable vegetation. This

technique is labour intensive, however, and is only practical

to use for small treatment areas or for a small number of

individual plants.

Cut Surface applications will be used in conjunction

with manual treatments for controlling deciduous

vegetation (i.e., problem vegetation). With this

method/technique, the problem vegetation is cut as

low to the ground as possible and pesticide is applied

to the cut surface of the stump to limit re-sprouting.

The active ingredients glyphosate and triclopyr may

be applied using this method/technique.

This method/technique is preferable in highly visible areas or

in areas where standing dead trees do not meet treatment

objectives. Because pesticide application is restricted to the

cut surface of freshly cut stumps, there is generally no

pesticide drift, resulting in minimal impact to fish, wildlife,

and bodies of water, water sources, and food intended for

human consumption. Cut surface applications pose little risk

of pesticide exposure to workers or the general public. If

treatment is not undertaken immediately following physical

control, this technique may not be successful.

Soil applications will be used for the application

of the non-selective residual herbicide active

ingredients for control of problem vegetation

within facilities.

The soil applied herbicides proposed for use will give

season long control of problem vegetation within

facilities when applied at label rates. Care must be taken

when applying these herbicides in close proximity to

environmentally sensitive areas, and to avoid application

conditions that will increase herbicide drift.

4.8.7 Pesticide Application Equipment

The application equipment proposed for use in applying pesticides under this PMP

include:

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Backpack Sprayer

A backpack is a portable, manually operated, pressurized container with a positive

shut-off system and a nozzle for applying pesticides. It operates under low pressure,

thus minimizing the possibility of drift. It is particularly useful for spraying small

areas or individual trees and plants. Within this PMP, backpack sprayers may be

used to apply all of the active ingredients proposed for use for invasive plant control

by foliar application, or applied for problem vegetation control by application to

foliage or to freshly cut stems or stumps.

Wick/Wipe-On Applicator

Wick/wipe on application may be used to selectively apply pesticides containing the

active ingredient glyphosate by wiping it directly onto plants. Only small amounts of

glyphosate are applied, so the need for pumps, control devices and spray tanks is

eliminated. Wick/wipe on applications are ideal for invasive plant control in areas

where no spray drift can be tolerated, or applied for problem vegetation control by

application to foliage freshly cut stems or stumps.

Handgun (Power Hose and Nozzle)

A handgun (power hose and nozzle) is a hand-held spray gun and hose attached to

a portable tank filled with pesticide solution, usually with a power driven pump to

provide pressure to the pesticide solution in the hose. The tank and pump unit may

be mounted onto a vehicle that has one or multiple handguns and potentially one or

more boom and/or boomless nozzle attachments. Handguns are generally used at

sites where large areas of invasive plants have to be controlled, or for the control

of large areas of problem vegetation (e.g., around facility perimeter fences).

Within this PMP, handguns may be used to apply all of the active ingredients

proposed for use for invasive plant or problem vegetation control by foliar

application.

Squirt Bottle

A hand-held, non-pressurized container, used to apply the pesticide active

ingredients glyphosate and triclopyr to the cut surface of deciduous stumps or

stems to inhibit re-sprouting following physical control methods.

4.9 Treatment Selection Criteria

4.9.1 Factors to Consider When Using a Pesticide for

Invasive Plant or Problem Vegetation Control

There are several factors that must be considered when using a pesticide for

invasive plant or problem vegetation control. These are:

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October 24, 2014 27

Soil residual activity;

Timing of application;

Mode of action; and,

Selectivity

Soil Residual Activity

The term residual refers to having an effect for a period of time after application.

Pesticide active ingredients are classified as having a low soil residual activity,

moderate soil residual activity, or long residual soil activity. Table 13 shows how

long after application each pesticide proposed for use under this PMP will

generally remain active in the soil.

Table 13: Residual Soil Activity of Pesticide Proposed for Use

Category of Residual

Activity

Duration of Soil

Activity Label Rates

Pesticide Active Ingredients

Low Soil Residual

Activity

Up to 40 days dicamba, diflufenzopyr, flumioxazin,

glyphosate, 2,4-D amine,

Moderate Soil Residual

Activity

Up to 1 year aminocyclopyrachor, aminopyralid,

clopyralid, diuron, imazapyr, triclopyr,

metsulfuron-methyl

Long Soil Residual

Activity

Greater than 1 year none

Timing of Application

Timing of application refers to when, during the year, the pesticides are applied.

If pesticides are applied to the foliage of actively growing invasive plants or

problem vegetation, they are termed post-emergent pesticides. If they are applied

to the soil, they are termed pre-emergent pesticides. Under this PMP, pesticides

will be not applied pre-emergent or to the soil. All pesticide applications will be

applied post-emergent, either to the foliage of the target vegetation or to cut

surfaces.

Mode of Action

A pesticide’s mode of action refers to the way in which it affects a plant. Uptake

of pesticides is by plant roots (soil applied), foliage and stems. All pesticides

proposed for use within this PMP are applied to the foliage cut surfaces and carried

along with other nutrients throughout the plant (i.e., are translocated), and disrupt

plant growth processes.

Selectivity

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Pesticides that control all plants are termed non-selective while those that are

effective in controlling certain types of plants are termed selective. With the

exception of the active ingredients glyphosate and metsulfuron-methyl, all

pesticides proposed for under this PMP are selective for the control of broadleaved

plants. Glyphosate and metsulfuron-methyl are non-selective pesticides and will

control most plants.

4.9.2 Considerations in Choosing a Treatment Option

There are generally several treatment options for each invasive plant or problem

vegetation situation encountered during monitoring. Which option or options are

chosen will depend on the plant characteristics, the known efficacy of the option,

the characteristics of the site, and the size of the infestation and the goal of the

program.

Plant Characteristics and Efficacy of Treatment Option

The characteristics or growth habits of an invasive plant species or species of

problem vegetation will influence which pest management option will be most

effective. For example, hand pulling rhizomatous plants like Canada thistle and

leafy spurge are not an effective control measure, whereas hand- pulling tap rooted

plants like the knapweeds and common tansy works well. Pesticide labels will list

or describe the plant species that will be controlled.

Site Characteristics

Site characteristics and the limitations those characteristics place on treatment

options have to be determined. For example, hand pulling on a steep slope with

fine textured soils can destabilize the slope. Proximity to bodies of water or water

sources (agricultural and domestic) also precludes pesticide use in some areas, or

limits the choice of pesticides that may be used.

Size of the Infestation

The size of the invasive plant infestation or problem vegetation, and the

practicality of applying the various control options have to be considered. For

example, a small infestation of one hundred or less plants can be hand pulled with

little soil disturbance. However, it is not practical to hand pull a dense infestation

of several thousand plants on a 0.5 hectare site without also causing serious soil

disturbance. Pesticide applications or, in some cases mowing, can be done on the

site with little soil disturbance. For large sites (greater than 5 hectares), release of

biological control agents, if available, might be a viable option for control of

specific species of invasive plants. If it is determined that the site has a high

priority for control, and biological control agents are not available, then manual

methods such as mowing or cultivation may be an option.

Program Goals

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The goals and objectives for an invasive plant or problem vegetation site can

influence the choice of pest management options. For example, if invasive plants

are on a Category 1 site of high priority, the immediate goal is to prevent any

spread population increase. The long-term goal is to eliminate the site. If,

however, invasive plants are on a Category 2 site of lower priority, the immediate

and long-term goals are to prevent or minimize their spread to other areas. For the

first scenario, control options such as hand pulling, rouging or pesticides may be

viable options. Mowing would not be a good option as it allows the existing

invasive plants to persist. For the second scenario, mowing may be the best

option, depending on the species of invasive plant. For problem vegetation that are

growing within facilities, or growing adjacent to their perimeter fences, may have

to be controlled or removed for the reasons listed in Section 3.0.

4.9.3 Treatment Selection Decision Tree

A treatment decision tree is included below to show the kinds of considerations

that are taken into account by TNRD staff and contractors when deciding on

possible treatment options for an invasive plant infestations or problem vegetation.

The tree indicates which treatment options are applicable under identified

circumstances. This decision tree may be used in conjunction with the specific

treatment options for specific invasive plants described earlier. It must be noted

that the decision tree is a guide and shall generally be used. Treatment selection is

site specific and may warrant a treatment selection other than that recommended in

this decision tree.

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Treatment Selection Decision Tree

1) Species Identification a) Species is an invasive plant or problem vegetation-------------------------- 2)

b) Species is not an invasive plant or problem vegetation ---------------- no action

2) Species Location

a) Species is found on TNRD owned/controlled land -------------------------- 3)

b) Species is not found on TNRD owned/controlled land --------------- no action

3) Water Issues a) Species is found in, or within the Pesticide

Free Zone (PFZ) or No Treatment Zone (NTZ)

of a body of water, riparian area, domestic or

agricultural water intake ---------------------- Treatment Methods

Excluding Chemical Control b) Species is not found in, or within the PFZ or NTZ

Of a body of water, riparian area, domestic or

agricultural water intake ---------------------------------------------------- 4)

4) Environmental Considerations a) Species is found in an area with environmental considerations

that would restrict the use of pesticides --- Treatment Methods

Excluding Chemical Control b) Species is not found in an area with environmental considerations

that would restrict the use of pesticides ----Treatment Methods

Including Chemical

Control -----------------------5)

5) Non-Target Species a) Species is found in close proximity to non-target species

that would restrict the use of pesticides ----Treatment Methods

Excluding Chemical Control b) Species is not found in close proximity to non-target species

that would restrict the use of pesticides ----Treatment Methods

Including Chemical Control

4.10 Specific Treatment Options for Invasive Plants

Unlike problem vegetation, for invasive plants there are generally several treatment

options. Which option or options are chosen will depend, in part, on the considerations

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discussed above. The following specific recommendations shown in Table 14 give some

examples of control options that the TNRD may consider for the control of the invasive

plants of most concern within their regional district. This list was obtained from the

Southern Interior Weed Management Committee (SIWMC) website: www.siwmc.ca

Table 14: Control Options for Invasive Plants of Current Concern (2014) Within the

TNRD

Invasive Plant

Species

Control Options

Blueweed Small infestations can be controlled with hand pulling. Cutting established blueweed can

reduce seed production, but repeated treatments may be required to prevent shoots from re-

sprouting and producing seed. Spring and early autumn applications of 2,4-D will manage

blueweed. There are currently no biological control agents available for blueweed control.

Bull thistle Cutting and mowing top growth or cutting the taproot just below the root crown just before

seed set has been shown to eliminate annual seed production. Repeated applications of this

treatment may be necessary. Cutting and mowing treatments are most effective before the

plant has bolted. When applied in the rosette stage or after mowing, dicamba, glyphosate, 2,4-

D and aminopyralid have provided effective management. There are several biological control

agents are currently available for bull thistle control.

Canada thistle Repeated mowing can be effective in reducing seed set. Intensive cultivation aimed at

depleting food reserves in the roots, followed by competitive cropping, is effective in the long

term. Spring and autumn applications of clopyralid, aminopyralid, or a dicamba/2,4-D tank

mix have been effective when the roots are actively growing. There are several biological

control agents are available for Canada thistle control.

Common

burdock

Tillage can be used to kill the plants at the rosette stage. Mowing or cutting can be used to

eliminate seed production. Mow after the plant has bolted but before it has flowered.

Common burdock can be controlled with 2,4-D, dicamba, or glyphosate. Pesticides are most

effective when applied to first-year rosettes. There are currently no biological control agents

available for common burdock control.

Dalmation

toadflax

Cutting plants reduces top growth seed production but will not kill the plant. Hand pulling

before seed-set each year can be an effective management method for small populations,

especially if a seed bank has not developed. Sheep grazing (before the plants set seed) can

suppress infestations and reduce seed production. Intensive discing over a two-year period can

be effective on cropland, if followed by seeding with appropriate perennial species. Autumn

applications of 2,4-D may give effective control. There are several biological control agents

are currently available for dalmation toadflax control.

Diffuse knapweed Under some circumstances, fire can be used to remove standing dead material, which may

increase the efficacy of pesticides applied after the burn. Cutting or mowing before seed-set

can be effective to reduce seed production, but will not eliminate large infestations. Cut plants

and rosettes may survive and re-bolt. Ideally, mowing should be followed by an autumn

pesticide treatment. Hand pulling can be effective in small infestations, but often needs to be

repeated. 2,4-D and clopyralid are effective for diffuse knapweed control. To maximize

effectiveness, pesticides should be applied before plants set seed, or applied to rosettes in the

autumn. There are several biological control agents for the control of diffuse knapweed.

Field scabious Cutting, mowing and cultivation are effective control methods. Small infestations of

immature plants can be hand-pulled. Seed production can be reduced by cattle grazing early

in the season, but the plant becomes unpalatable as it produces flowering stalks.

Metsulfuron-methyl give effective control, and should be applied to actively growing plants

up to the early flower bud stage. There are currently no biological control agents available for

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October 24, 2014 32

field scabious control.

Hoary alyssum Small populations can be controlled by hand pulling. Mowing can be effective in preventing

seed production. Applications of 2,4-D, dicamba, and glyphosate applied in spring or autumn

to actively growing plants have proven to be effective. There are currently no biological

control agents available for hoary alyssum control.

Leafy spurge Tillage, mowing, pulling and burning are generally ineffective because of the plant’s extensive

root system. Spring applications of 2,4-D may be effective if applied before flowers emerge.

Annual applications of dicamba and 2,4-D are effective in managing leafy spurge.

Applications of glyphosate are effective when applied at one-month intervals and followed by

autumn grass seeding. There are several biological control agents for the control of leafy

spurge.

Marsh plume

thistle

On small infestations, hand-pulling seedling, rosettes and mature plants before they set to seed

may be effective. In areas that are suitable for the use of mowing equipment, mowing before

flowering will prevent seed-set. Where practical, seeding of disturbed areas to perennial

grasses and forbs to provide cover and competition has proven effective. There are currently

no pesticides registered for marsh thistle control. There are currently several biological

control agents available for marsh plume thistle control.

Orange

hawkweed

Mowing prevents seed production but encourages increased vegetative reproduction. 2,4-D

provides good control when applied to actively growing plants in spring and early summer.

There are currently no biological control agents available for orange hawkweed control.

Three prospective agents are currently being tested.

Perennial

pepperweed

Cutting, pulling and periodic mowing can manage perennial pepperweed if done before seed-

set. Spring burning may be effective in reducing plant density. Metsulfuron-methyl,

glyphosate, 2,4-D, and a combination of glyphosate and 2,4-D are effective in controlling

perennial pepperweed. There are currently no biological control agents available for perennial

pepperweed control.

Rush

skeletonweed

Hand pulling can be used on small infestations, but repeat treatments will likely be required

because of the plant’s extensive root system. Mowing and cultivation are ineffective at

controlling rush skeletonweed. Repeated applications of a mixture of glyphosate and dicamba

have been effective on rush skeletonweed populations. Similarly, annual applications of a

mixture of clopyralid and dicamba have also shown to be effective. Pesticides should

be applied after the plant has bolted but before it sets seed. Rotational grazing with sheep can

provide control if the plants are grazed at a moderate level. There are three biological control

agents that may be effective in distorting the growth of rush skeletonweed.

Scentless

chamomile

Frequent shallow tillage will manage seedlings effectively by encouraging germination of

seeds after the current seedlings have been destroyed. Plants are less likely to re-establish is

soils are tilled during hot, dry weather and before plants flower. Seed production can be

reduced if plants are mowed before they flower. Because scentless chamomile produces new

flowers below the normal mower cutting height, mowing will only be effective if done early

and often, with each successive mowing lower than the previous one. Dicamba has been

effective in controlling scentless chamomile in non-crop areas when applied early in the

season before flowering. Three biological control agents have been released, and monitoring is

continuing to determine their effectiveness.

Scotch thistle Mowing or hand-cutting are usually most effective in combination with other methods. Plants

can regrow from severed roots, and cut stems may still produce viable seed. Dicamba, 2,4-D,

and clopyralid have been effective in managing Scotch thistle. Combinations of dicamba and

2,4-D, or clopyralid and 2,4-D, have also been used. Metsulfuron-methyl has also shown to be

effective after bolting begins. Pesticides should be applied in spring before the plant bolts or in

the autumn to rosettes. There are currently no biological control agents available for scotch

thistle control.

Spotted

knapweed

Cutting, mowing or pulling before the plant sets seed can be effective on a local basis for

small populations. However, spotted knapweed can remain dormant in the soil for long

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October 24, 2014 33

periods, so follow-up treatments will be required to ensure the plant has been controlled. The

entire root system should be removed so that the plant will not re-sprout from the crown or

remaining roots. 2,4-D, clopyralid and glyphosate are effective in controlling spotted

knapweed. Pesticides should be applied before the mature plants set seed for maximum

effectiveness. There are several biological control agents for managing spotted knapweed.

Sulphur

cinquefoil

Small infestations can be managed by hand digging or by repeated cultivation. Clopyralid and

2,4-D have shown to be effective. There are currently no biological control agents available

for sulphur cinquefoil control.

Yellow hawkweed Hand pulling small infestations may be effective, but care must be taken not to scatter the

roots and stolons. Mowing prevents seed production but encourages increased vegetative

reproduction. 2,4-D provides control when applied to actively growing plants in spring and

early summer. There are currently no biological control agents available for yellow

hawkweed control.

Yellow starthistle Hand pulling can be used to remove small infestations. Mowing can be used to control larger

infestations. Mowing alone is ineffective as a management method, but can be helpful in

stressing the plants that grow above desirable seeded species during re-vegetation. Dicamba

and 2,4-D are effective if applied from the seedling to the bolt stages. There are currently no

biological control agents available for yellow starthistle control.

4.11 Treatment Inspections and Evaluations

Contractors and TNRD staff (if required) shall carry out all application of pesticides.

Qualified contractors shall be in possession of a valid Pesticide User Licence to undertake

all applications of pesticides for invasive plant or problem vegetation management under

this PMP.

All contract work will be inspected / evaluated to ensure:

Compliance with the commitments made in this PMP;

Compliance with the IPMA and IPMR; and

The efficacy of the work that has been undertaken by the contractor.

4.11.1 Inspections

TNRD staff shall inspect all areas covered by this plan during each operational

season. During these inspections, it shall be determined if control measures should

be implemented based on the injury thresholds documented in this PMP. If control

measures are warranted, control options and treatment selection criteria (Decision

Tree) shall generally be used to decide if pesticides are the most appropriate

control option. If pesticides are going to be used, the following procedures shall

be followed.

Post-treatment inspections shall generally be undertaken by certified and qualified

TNRD staff within 30 days of pesticide use. The inspections shall document that

the contractor has adhered to all standards, specifications and commitments made

in this PMP, and required by both the IPMR and IPMR.

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4.11.2 Evaluations

Pre-treatment and post-treatment evaluations are a more formal process than an

inspection. TNRD staff shall conduct pre-treatment evaluations to monitor site

conditions and to ensure that proposed treatments are the most effective for the

targeted invasive plants or problem vegetation. These pre-treatment evaluations

are conducted in conjunction with the inspections described earlier.

Post-treatment evaluations are undertaken to determine the effectiveness of the

invasive plant or problem vegetation control program. Evaluation results are used

to revise control methods, if warranted, and to provide the basis for improvements

and changes to the TNRD invasive plant management process.

When evaluating the results of both chemical and non-chemical controls, TNRD

staff shall consider the following:

Whether the targeted invasive plants or problem vegetation were affected by

the control option chosen, and if the level of control was acceptable;

Whether the treatment method used was effective;

Whether environmentally sensitive areas were adequately protected;

For treatment involving pesticides, does the application rate need to be

adjusted based on the results;

Whether there was any observable off-site herbicide movement or impact on

surrounding areas; and

Were the established PFZ’, NTZs and buffer zones appropriate for the

treatment method used.

5.0 Operational Information

The operational information included in this section includes:

Qualifications and responsibilities of persons applying pesticides;

Procedures for safely transporting pesticides;

Procedures for safely storing pesticides;

Procedures for safely mixing, loading and applying pesticides;

Procedures for the safe disposal of empty herbicide containers and unused

pesticides; and,

Procedures for responding to pesticide spills

5.1 Qualifications and Responsibilities of Persons

Applying Pesticides

All pesticide applications will be conducted or supervised by a person who holds a

Pesticide Applicator Certificate endorsed for the class of pesticide and the pesticide use

TNRD Invasive Plant and Problem Vegetation PMP

October 24, 2014 35

required for pesticide applications under this PMP. Any individual or company (i.e., a

contractor) that provides a service to the TNRD by applying commercial or industrial

pesticides for invasive plant or problem vegetation control must have a valid BC Pesticide

User Licence.

The responsibilities of the Certified Pesticide Applicator are to:

Be in continuous attendance at the site;

Have available proof of certification;

Supervise no more than 4 uncertified assistants at one time;

Maintain continuous contact, auditory and/or visual, with the uncertified assistants;

Be within 500 meters of persons being supervised; and,

Comply with the standards contained in Division 7 of the IPMR.

5.2 Procedures for Safely Transporting Pesticides

Personnel shall follow these procedures for safely transporting pesticides:

Limit the amount of pesticides that will be carried in any one vehicle. The

quantity shall be no more than what is necessary for each project, except where

transportation occurs between storage facilities;

Ensure that pesticides are carried in a compartment that is secured against spillage

and unauthorized removal. The compartment shall be separate from food and

drinking water, safety gear, spill containment equipment and people;

Inspect all pesticide containers for defects prior to transporting. Keep pesticides in

their original containers and with original labels. If original labels are not

available, the pesticides shall be placed in appropriate containers that have the

trade name, active ingredient concentration and pesticide registration number

affixed to the outside of the container;

Ensure that the vehicle is equipped with a first aid kit, fire extinguisher, spill

contingency plan and kit, and that the vehicle operator has been trained on how to

handle spills;

Ensure that all documents and placards are carried in, or placed on, transport

vehicles if required under the Transportation of Dangerous Goods Act, the IPMA

or the IPMR; and,

Read and understand the pesticide labels and the product Material Safety Data

Sheet (MSDS) for all pesticides being transported.

5.3 Procedures for Safely Storing Pesticides

Personnel shall follow these procedures for safely storing pesticides:

Ensure that pesticides are stored in accordance with the IPMA, IPMR and the

WorkSafeBC document Standard Practices for Pesticide Applicators;

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Keep pesticides in their original containers and with original packaging. If original

packaging is not available, the pesticides shall be placed in appropriate containers

that have the trade name, active ingredient concentration and pesticide registration

number affixed to the outside of the container;

Ensure that storage facilities are locked when left unattended, ventilated to the

outside atmosphere, are entered only by persons authorized to do so, and that there

is a placard affixed and maintained on the outside of each door leading into the

storage area bearing, in block letters that are clearly visible, the words “

WARNING – CHEMICAL STORAGE – AUTHORIZED PERSONS ONLY”;

and,

Keep storage facilities separate from work and living areas, and away from food,

flammable materials, bodies of water and water sources.

5.4 Procedures for Safely Mixing, Loading and

Applying Pesticides

Personnel shall follow these procedures for safely mixing, loading and applying

pesticides:

Ensure that all mixing, loading and application of pesticides is carried out by

Certified Pesticide Applicators, and that all manufacturer’s recommendations, as

specified on the pesticide labels, are adhered to;

Ensure that all mixing, loading and application of pesticides is undertaken in a safe

manner. All mixing and loading shall be undertaken only in areas at least 15

meters from, and selected to prevent, any spilled pesticides from entering

pesticide-free zones, no treatment zones, bodies of water, fish or wildlife habitat,

water sources, or other environmentally sensitive areas;

Ensure that containers used to mix, prepare or apply pesticides are not washed or

submerged in any body of water;

Ensure that eye wash station(s), protective clothing, safety spill kits, spill response

plans, a copy of this plan, each pesticide products’ MSDS, emergency telephone

numbers and first aid supplies are present and available at or near the treatment

site; and

To follow all directions and restrictions on pesticide labels, including adhering to

the recommended re-entry times to treated areas unless personal protective

equipment is worn.

5.5 Procedures for the Safe Disposal of Empty

Pesticide Containers and Unused Pesticides

Personnel shall follow these procedures for safely disposing of empty pesticide containers and

unused pesticides:

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Ensure that all pesticides waste is disposed of in a manner consistent with the

requirements of the BC Waste Management Act and the Special Waste

Regulations, as appropriate;

Ensure that empty pesticide containers are returned to the distributor as part of

their recycling program; or triple rinsed or pressure rinsed, altered so that they

cannot be reused, and disposed of in a permitted sanitary landfill or other approved

disposal site; and

Ensure that all leftover pesticides are stored for future use in a manner consistent

with the requirements specified in Section 4.3 above.

5.6 Procedures for Responding to Pesticide Spills

TNRD personnel and their contractors shall follow these procedures for responding to pesticide

spills. If contractors that work under this PMP have their own spill response plan, they must meet

or exceed the following plan:

Spill treatment equipment shall be present or near storage (including mobile

storage), mixing and loading sites and shall include: personal protective

equipment, absorbent material, neutralizing material, a long handled broom,

shovel, and a waste-receiving container with lid;

A copy of an approved spill response plan shall be at or near each work site, and

all personnel working on the project shall be familiar with its contents;

All personnel shall be protected from pesticide contamination by wearing

appropriate protective clothing and safety gear;

Any person exposed to a pesticide shall be moved away from the place of the spill;

First aid shall be administered, if required;

The source of the spill shall be stopped;

The spilled material shall be stopped from spreading by creating a dam or ridge;

The project supervisor shall ensure that operations cease until the spill is contained

and the source is repaired;

Absorbent material shall be spread over the spill, if applicable, to absorb any

liquid;

The absorbent material shall be collected in garbage bags or containers with

contents clearly marked;

Contaminated soil or other material shall be removed from the spill site and placed

in garbage bags or containers;

The person responsible for the project shall contact the TNRD for shipping

instructions and disposal requirements;

When more than 5 liters or 5 kg of pesticides are spilled, the person responsible for

the project shall immediately report to the BC Provincial Emergency Program by

telephoning 1-800-663-3456 or, where that is not practical, to the local police or

nearest detachment of the RCMP; and,

An approved representative of the TNRD shall be notified of the details related to

the spill as soon as practical by the Contractor project supervisor.

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6.0 Environmental Protection Strategies and

Procedures

All pest management activities undertaken under this PMP (both chemical and non-chemical)

incorporate measures designed to protect the natural environment including:

Strategies to protect community watersheds;

Strategies to protect domestic and agricultural wells and water intakes, bodies of water and

streams;

Strategies to protect fish and wildlife, riparian areas, bodies of water and wildlife habitat;

Strategies to prevent pesticide contamination of food intended for human consumption;

Pre-treatment inspection procedures for identifying treatment area boundaries;

Procedures for monitoring weather conditions and strategies for modifying pesticide

application methods for different weather conditions; and,

Procedures for pre-treatment inspections to ensure protection of human health and the

environment during treatment period.

6.1 Strategies to Protect Community Watersheds Prior to the application of pesticides, the TNRD shall implement the following strategies

to protect community watersheds:

Locations of community watersheds will be verified by accessing information

from the Ministry of Environment or local governments;

Pesticides will not be stored within a community watershed for more than 24 hours

prior to their use, and removed from the community watershed within 7 days of

their use, unless they are stored in a permanent structure;

Pesticide use will be discontinued if pesticide residues or pesticide breakdown

products are detected at a community watershed water intake, and further use will

not be undertaken until the BC Ministry of Health Services (Medical Health

Officer) has been satisfied that all required measures have been implemented to

preserve water quality; and,

Prior to the use of pesticides, community watershed maps will be consulted to

determine if proposed treatments are within a community watershed or are within

100 meters upslope of any water intake, or 30 meters down slope of any water

intake.

6.2 Strategies to Protect Domestic and Agricultural

Wells and Water Intakes, Bodies of Water and

Streams

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The TNRD shall ensure that, prior to pesticide use, strategies are developed and

implemented that identify and protect domestic and agricultural wells and water intakes,

bodies of water and streams. In order to protect domestic and agricultural water source

and bodies of water during pesticide use, the TNRD and their contractors shall maintain

the no treatment zones (NTZ) and pesticide free zones (PFZ) shown in Table 15.

Table 15 Minimum Water Protection Measures for the Protection of Domestic and

Agricultural Wells and Water Intakes, Bodies of Water and Streams

Permitted Applications NTZ/PFZ Exception Domestic and agricultural wells and water intakes, including all

methods and pesticides 30 m NTZ NTZ may be reduced if

reasonably satisfied that a

smaller NTZ will ensure no

pesticide enters the well,

water supply, intake or well

Non-Glyphosate Applications

Around or along a body of water, dry stream, or classified

wetland using any pesticide except glyphosate, subject to label

restrictions and including all application methods

10 m PFZ Glyphosate applications

(see

below)

Glyphosate Applications Along or around a body of water if the body of water is:

non fish-bearing at any time of the year, or

does not drain directly into a fish-bearing body of water

2 m NTZ

Along or around a body of water or a classified wetland that is:

fish-bearing, or

that drains directly into a fish-bearing body of water, or

along or around a dry stream that when wet is fish-bearing

or that drains directly into a fish-bearing body

of water

5 m PFZ

Up to the high water mark of a temporary free-standing body of

water and dry stream, that is:

not fish-bearing at any time of the year

does not drain directly into a fish-bearing body of water

0 m PFZ

Noxious Weed & Invasive Plant Management -All Uses Selective application to noxious weeds & invasive plants if the

application is made between 1m & 10m above high water mark 1 m PFZ

For non-foliar and non-aerial applications, do not apply

pesticides more than 1.5 m from a targeted plant 1.5 m from a

targeted weed

or plant

Reasonable efforts must be

made to protect any

biological weed control

organisms in the area

Pesticide-free zone (PFZ) – an area of land that must not be treated with pesticides, and must be protected from pesticides moving

into it. PFZs are measured by the horizontal distance from the high water mark. PFZs will be identified,

marked/flagged prior to any pesticide application.

No-treatment zone (NTZ) – an area of land that must not be treated with pesticides. NTZs will be identified, marked/flagged prior

to any pesticide application.

Body of water -- any watercourse or body of water, such as a stream, river, wetland, or lake, but not including a human-made,

self-contained body of water or structure of water.

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Stream – a watercourse that contains water on a permanent or seasonal basis, is scoured by water, or contains observable deposits

of mineral alluvium, and which has a continuous channel bed that is 100 m or more in length, or flows directly into a fish stream or a

fish-bearing lake or wetland, or a licensed waterworks.

Wetland – a swamp, marsh, bog, or other similar area that supports natural vegetation, and which is distinct from adjacent upland.

6.3 Strategies to Protect Fish and Wildlife, Riparian

Areas, Wildlife Habitat, and Species at Risk

TNRD facilities are generally not located in areas that are in close proximity to fish and

wildlife, riparian areas, wildlife habitat and species at risk. When required for their

protection, the TNRD and their contractors shall implement the following strategies to

protect fish and wildlife, riparian areas, wildlife habitat and species at risk prior to control

methods (chemical and non-chemical) being implemented under this PMP:

Maintain a minimum 15 m NTZ around riparian areas and wildlife habitat;

Establish and mark/flag the boundaries of any required PFZ and NTZ prior to

control measures being implemented;

Undertake all pesticide applications in a manner that endangered wildlife species,

riparian areas, fish and wildlife and wildlife habitat are not impacted;

Avoid treating by chemical and non-chemical methods low-growing shrubs and

plants that may be browsed by wildlife or used for habitat;

Cleaning, fueling and refilling of equipment will not be undertaken within 15

meters of an NTZ;

Establish and maintain PFZs around inhabited raptor and heron nests, wildlife trees

and mineral licks during vegetation management activities; and,

Minimize soil erosion during vegetation management activities so as not to have

an impact on desirable vegetation and wildlife.

6.4 Strategies to Prevent Contamination of Food for

Human Consumption

TNRD facilities are occasionally located near environmentally sensitive areas such as

lawns, vegetable gardens, berry picking and bee keeping areas, and areas containing

agricultural crops and domestic animals. Food intended for human consumption is

sometimes grown or found within these areas. If food for human consumption is

found/identified adjacent to problem vegetation that may be targeted for control, the

following strategies shall be implemented for their protection:

Non-chemical methods of vegetation management shall be considered where

treatment objectives can be achieved;

Where possible, areas containing food plants for human consumption (including

berries, medicinal plants and organic farms) shall be located;

If control methods involving the application of pesticides are required, PFZs shall

be maintained around these areas during pesticide application;

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Treatment Notices shall be posted at public access points to proposed treatment

areas advising of treatment near food crops. This will ensure that people are aware

that the area has been treated with pesticides; and,

Where possible, pesticide treatments shall be conducted at times to minimize

impact on food plants.

The onus is on organic farmers to ensure that there is an adequate buffer zone between

their farm and TNRD facilities.

6.5 Pre-Treatment Inspection Procedures for

Identifying Treatment Area Boundaries

A pre-treatment inspection shall be completed prior to pesticide use to protect

environmentally sensitive areas and to establish treatment area boundaries. During this

inspection, the location of environmentally sensitive areas shall be located and mapped. A

pre-treatment meeting/discussion shall be held, and all crew members shall be instructed

in the flagging/marking requirements (which may include the use of Riparian Zone and

PFZ flagging tape), as well as the methodology and procedures for herbicide application

and handling and the posting of Treatment Notices by the contractor at locations that meet

regulatory requirements

6.6 Procedures for Maintaining and Calibrating

Pesticide Application Equipment [IPMR Section 58(3)(b)(v)]

All pesticide application equipment used at TNRD facilities shall be safe, clean, in good

repair, compatible, and appropriate for the pesticide being used. As a minimum, all

backpack sprayers and handguns (power hose and nozzle) shall be calibrated once per year

prior to use, and at regular intervals throughout the season. Sprayers shall be re-calibrated

when changing pesticide products or when nozzle output begins to vary. The frequency of

sprayer calibration shall be dictated by factors such as formulation of pesticides used. For

example, abrasive formulations containing wettable powders normally result in greater

nozzle wear, and will require more frequent calibration.

6.7 Procedures for Monitoring Weather Conditions and

Strategies for Modifying Pesticide Application

Methods for Different Weather Condition

Weather conditions will be monitored prior to and periodically during pesticide

applications. Wind speed and direction, precipitation, temperature and sky conditions

(clear, overcast, cloudy, partly cloudy) will be recorded for foliar pesticide applications

using backpacks or handguns. Temperature, precipitation, frost and dew conditions will be

recorded for stem, bark, wick/wipe-on and stump applications.

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Pesticide applications will be shut down if:

The maximum temperature stated on the pesticide label is exceeded; OR,

The wind speed and/or direction cause the application of pesticide to drift and/or

miss the weeds to drift and/or miss the weeds; OR,

Wind speed exceeds 8 km/hour; OR,

It begins to rain, increasing the chances of excessive runoff and leaching.

6.8 Posting of Treatment Notices

Prior to treatment, Treatment Notices will be posted in locations so that they are clearly

visible and legible from each approach maintained by the TNRD for use by the public,

employees or contractors to access the treatment area, or at locations where due diligence

would seem to require them. The signs shall remain posted for 14 days following

pesticide application, and shall contain the following information:

The trade name or the active ingredient of the pesticide that will be used;

The date and time of the pesticide use;

Precautions to be taken to prevent harm to people entering the treatment area;

The PMP confirmation number;

Contact information for the TNRD to obtain information about the pesticide or

pesticide use: and,

For each treatment location, the applicator will maintain a record of where the

Treatment Notices were posted.

7.0 Reporting, Notification and Consultation

7.1 Reporting

Accurate record keeping allows the TNRD and the Administrator, IPMA, to:

Monitor the quantity of pesticides used;

Ensure compliance with the IPMR;

Ensure compliance with the commitments made in this PMP; and,

Ensure compliance with the contents of the Pesticide Use Notice.

The TNRD will ensure that each of the required records described below is maintained.

7.1.1 Confirmation Holder Use Records

Both the TNRD and each contracting firm that applies pesticides for the plan holder

must maintain daily records of pesticide use.

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Section 37(1) of the IPMR describes the requirements for these records. The

following records must be kept for each treatment location and day of use:

The date and time of the pesticide use;

The name of the invasive plant or problem vegetation targeted by the use or the

purpose of the pesticide use;

The trade name of each pesticide used and its registration number under the

federal Act;

For each pesticide used, the method and rate of application and the total quantity

used;

The prevailing meteorological conditions including temperature, precipitation and

velocity and direction of the wind, these conditions should be measured at the

beginning of each day before starting treatment, re-measured if obvious changes

in environmental conditions occur throughout the day, and re-measured at the end

of any treatment day; and,

A record for each piece of the holder’s pesticide application equipment that

requires calibration showing when the equipment was calibrated and the data

upon which its calibration was based.

7.1.2 Annual Report for Confirmation Holders

In accordance with Section 39 of the IPMR, the TNRD will provide to the Regional

Administrator, IPMA, the following information for each calendar year by January 31

in the next calendar year for operations conducted under this PMP during the calendar

year:

The name and address of the confirmation holder, and their confirmation

number;

Trade name and active ingredient of the pesticide(s) applied, including their PCP

numbers;

Locations and total area treated (ha); and,

Quantity of each active ingredient applied (kg).

7.2 Notifications

The TNRD commits to providing the following notifications with respect to this PMP:

7.2.1 Notification of PMP Confirmation

The TNRD will, within 7 days of the plan confirmation date, make available, for the

term of the confirmation, a copy of the confirmation and the PMP with relevant maps

at their local office to allow inspection by the public.

7.2.2 Annual Notice of Intent to Treat

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The plan holder will forward, in writing, to MoE, at least 21 days prior to treatment in

each year during which the PMP is in effect, an Annual Notice of Intent to Treat

(NIT) for the following year. The NIT will be submitted to the Regional Office of

MoE within whose geographic boundaries herbicide applications are being proposed.

This NIT will identify:

Name and business location of confirmation holder(s);

Proposed treatment areas;

Proposed treatments;

Pesticides proposed for use and their method of application; and,

The total area proposed for treatment.

7.2.3 Requests to Amend the PMP

The plan holder will forward, in writing, to MoE, amendments requested for the

PMP. Amendment requests to add new application techniques or similar changes will

not require further public consultation (advertising), provided that the amendment

request is within land owned or controlled by the TNRD. Amendments to add new

active ingredients will require further public consultation (advertising).

7.2.4 Notification of Contravention

Section 72(1)(d) of the IPMR requires that a confirmation holder give written notice

to the administrator on a contravention of the IPMA or IPMR that involves the release

of a pesticide into the environment. The TNRD commits to abiding by this

requirement.

7.2.5 Public Notification Prior to Treatment

Notification of individuals, communities and organizations in the time and manner as

agreed during the public consultation process, will be completed prior to treatments.

The plan holder will maintain a record of all public notifications for each treatment

area.

7.2.6 Employee Notification Prior to Treatment

The TNRD will provide internal notification to all potentially affected employees in

advance of all herbicide treatments. Employee notification is not normally

conducted in advance of mechanical methods of invasive plant control such as cutting

or manual removal.

7.2.7 Posting of Treatment Notices

Prior to treatment, Treatment Notices will be posted in locations so that they are

clearly visible and legible from each approach maintained by the TNRD for

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public/employees/contractors to access the treatment area or at locations where due

diligence would seem to require them. The signs shall remain posted for 24 hours

following pesticide application, and contain the following information:

The trade name and active ingredient of the pesticide that will be used;

The date and time of the pesticide used;

The purpose of the treatment;

The method of application;

Precautions to be taken to prevent harm to people entering the treatment area;

The PMP confirmation number;

The plan holder(s) contact information; and,

For each treatment location, the applicator will maintain a record of where

notices were posted.

The Treatment Notices shall be:

A minimum size of 550 sq. cm;

Water resistant;

Display the title “Notice of Pesticide Use” in bold letters that are clearly legible

to a person approaching the treatment area. Substitution of “pesticide” with

“herbicide” or another appropriate category of pesticide is permissible.

7.3 Consultations

7.3.1 Public Consultation Plan

Prior to submitting a Pesticide Use Notice to MoE for PMP confirmation, the TNRD

will carry out a consultation process with the public.

The objectives of conducting consultations when this PMP is at the draft stage are:

To increase public awareness of the PMP process and of the principles of IPM

which are embodied in the PMP;

To ensure that the public have an opportunity to identify concerns, and for the

TNRD to address those concerns before the PMP is finalized and a Pesticide Use

Notice submitted for confirmation;

To ensure a transparent and accountable review process for the PMP;

To educate the public on the need to manage invasive plants and problem

vegetation; and,

To explain how the planning process that is described in the PMP recognizes the

need to protect human health and the environment.

The public will be consulted of the PMP development via notices in local community

newspapers within the geographic boundaries of the plan.

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As per Section 61(1) of the IPMR, at least 45 days before submitting a Pesticide Use

Notice, the first of 2 notices, at least 40 cm2 in size, will be published within a 2 week

period in newspapers circulated in the various communities (or nearest communities).

During the public consultation process, the draft PMP will be accessible to the public

in various locations, as stated in the public notifications, and on the TNRD website to

allow the public to view and download the PMP text and the maps.

(add link to the TNRD web site)

7.3.2 Public Consultation Report

The TNRD will maintain a Public Consultation Report that contains:

A summary of public consultations, including the names and addresses of those

who provided input, the nature of their concerns and/or recommendations, and the

plan holder(s) response to the input from the public; and,

A list of newspapers in which notification of the pending PMP submission

appeared, along with the publication dates and a photocopy or tear sheet of a

representative advertisement.

7.3.3 First Nations Consultation

On September 8, 2014, the TNRD was advised by the BC Ministry of Environment

that the requirement to conduct First Nations consultation had been waived,

because the proposed treatment areas covered by the PMP were fenced compounds

that have physically restricted access, and the possibility of infringement of

aboriginal rights was extremely low. Consequently, First Nations consultations

will not be conducted

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Appendix 1: Map of the Geographic Boundaries to Which This PMP Applies

Fi1: F

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Appendix 2: List of the Specific Properties Directly Controlled by the TNRD to Which This PMP Applies

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Transfer Stations Septage Pits Others

Agate Bay Barriere Septage Pit TNRD Shop (660 Mission

Flat Road)

Black Pines Blue River Septage Pit

Blue River Clearwater Septage Pit

Bonaparte

Brennan Creek Landfills

Brookmere Agate Bay/Adams Lake

Chu Chua Ashcroft/Cache Creek

Clinton Aspen Grove

Eagan lake Avola

Knutsford Barriere

Lac Le Jeune Birch Island

Little Fort Blue River

Logan Lake Brennan Creek

Loon Lake Brookmere

Lytton Cache Creek/Westach

Mamit Lake Chase

McLure Clearwater

Monte Lake Heffley Creek

Paul Lake Lac Le Jeune

Pritchard Little Fort

Savona Logan Lake

Spences Bridge Loon Lake

Sun Peaks Lower Nicola

Tranquille Valley Lytton

Upper Nicola Mamit

Westwold McLure

70 Mile House Monte lake

Paul Lake

Eco Depots Pritchard Creek

Savona

Clearwater Eco Depot Spences Bridge

Clinton Eco Depot Westwold

Heffley Creek Eco Depot 70 Mile House

Lower Nicola Eco Depot

Louis Creek Eco Depot

S. Thompson Eco Depot

70 Mile House Eco Depot

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