Andrew Bucholtz

Reporter

Do you know what goes into your lawn and garden?

Mayor Lois Jackson says it’s crucial for residents to be aware of what’s in the pesticides they use, and Delta staff are considering an educational campaign in conjunction with a ban to do just that.

“We need to be cognizant of what we’re doing to our own gardens and lawns,” she said.

Jackson feels it’s important to look at banning the cosmetic use of pesticides, given recent research that suggests pesticide ingredients may be linked to increased risks of cancer.

“The science is coming forward that these products can go through your skin into your body,” she said.

“We should be looking at all the science that’s out there and the protection of people and animals.”

The Corporation of Delta has held several public meetings on a proposed cosmetic pesticide ban over the past two weeks. Jackson said the reaction so far has been mixed, with some residents arguing the proposed ban is too strong and others saying it’s necessary because of health concerns surrounding pesticides.

“You always have a variety of interests represented at these meetings,” she said. “Some people are saying we’re using a sledgehammer and we don’t have to, others are saying we have to because of the cancer overtones.”

However, Jackson said the meetings have been a positive way to garner community feedback.

“I think it’s very important for our community to have this discussion,” she said.

The next step in the process is a formal public hearing, which could take place as early as the end of October. Jackson said she’d like any proposed bylaw, which could involve a grace period, to focus on encouraging change through education instead of punishing pesticide users.

“It’s tough to police a major bylaw like this,” Jackson said. “I’d like to see enticements as opposed to a big stick.”

Michelle McEwan, outreach coordinator with Earthwise Society, said she’s happy to see the proposed ban moving forward.

“I think it’s a really important first step,” she said.

But she was discouraged to see no one from the general public at the forum in North Delta, only members of organizations and businesses already on board.

“It speaks to the problem of preaching to the converted,” she noted.

Earthwise Society currently offers programs on organic gardening that can help educate residents on alternatives to pesticide use. The society has run shorter programs for around 15 years, but this fall they will start a new intensive eight-week Organic Master Gardener program through Gaia College, which teaches holistic land care.

McEwan said the program will cover a multitude of organic gardening topics, including the importance of ecosystems, how to develop good soil, the role of fertilizer and compost and how to manage water use effectively.

“One of the goals is to give a very comprehensive ecosystem-based view of gardening, not gardening as a space you’re going to conquer.”

McEwan said there’s been a growing interest in organic gardening techniques lately as more municipalities discuss banning pesticides.

“The demand is out there,” she said.

McEwan said it’s crucial for people to understand the many serious issues surrounding pesticide use from both health and environmental standpoints.

“It’s important for us to be cognizant of what we do to our environment and how we affect our own backyards.”

Earthwise is holding a free information session about their eight-week pesticide-free gardening course Sept. 28, 6:30 p.m. at their location in Boundary Bay (6400 3 Ave.).