Invasive species threatens hemlock trees in Hamilton

Hemlock trees in Hamilton are being threatened by an invasive species and the City is warning residents not to clear the trees themselves.

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency says Hemlock Woolly Adelgid have been found in eastern hemlock trees in the forested areas surrounding Churchill Park.

Hemlock Woolly Adelgid is a destructive aphid-like insect. They can be identified by their egg sacs which look like pieces of cotton or small clumps of snow gathered at the base of needles.

The insects feed on the base of the needles, causing them to drop and leading to the death of the tree in as little as four years.

The City’s records say that there are only 321 hemlock trees accounted for within Hamilton’s forest inventory, indicating a low threat.

But the City can not account for the number of hemlock trees within publicly owned woodlots, saying they do not have access to this data.

Residents are asked to check for pests in hemlock trees on their private property, but should not attempt to remove the insects themselves.

To report the suspected presence of Hemlock Woolly Adelgid, contact a local CFIA Office at 905-572-2201.