Invasive forest insect confirmed in Niagara Region

By The Invasive Species Centre
Thorold Today
May 7, 2024
Category: Forestry
Region: Canada, Canada East

An invasive forest insect known as the Hemlock Woolly Adelgid (Adelges tsugae, HWA) has been confirmed by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency in the City of Port Colborne, Niagara Region.  HWA is a species native to Eastern Asia that targets hemlock and spruce trees. First discovered in Virginia in the 1950s, it has since spread across North America and is relatively new in Ontario. This insect is problematic to our native Eastern hemlock trees, relying on them as their host. …Left unmanaged, this pest can severely disrupt our forest ecosystems. Although they may not contribute a significant economic value to the forestry industry, hemlocks are often sold as nursery stock, posing a possible threat to the horticultural industry.    …Please report suspected infestations to the Canadian Food Inspection Agency. A good report includes an accurate location of the suspect tree and photos of the symptoms. 

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