VANCOUVER, BC — The third and final phase to address high-risk trees in Stanley Park impacted by the hemlock looper is beginning on January 13, 2026. The hemlock looper insect experiences population outbreaks roughly every 15 years, however the most recent outbreak resulted in significant tree mortality in the park causing an elevated risk to public safety. The Phase III work approved by the Board will include tree removals in Q1 and Q4 of 2026, with restoration work to take place in the spring of 2026 and 2027. …Across all phases of the work so far approximately 11,000 dead or dying trees were removed. The majority of trees removed were western hemlock and a smaller number of Douglas fir and western red cedar. 58% of Stanley Park’s forested areas affected have now been treated and planted. In addition, over 54,000 new seedlings of diverse species have been planted, supported through a 3-year donation from Western Forest Products.