Editor:

This is an open letter to fellow professional gardeners, politicians, and White Rock and Surrey residents.

I am writing this letter because a girl, close to my granddaughter’s age, is not allowed to play on the grass or near the garden beds around her apartment.

The child’s wisely protective – yet frustrated – mother told me their gardeners continue to use pesticides in spite of protests. Proper notice is not given and product names are not disclosed.

This is not an isolated incident.

Most people are becoming more environmentally aware and make wise organic choices, but there are still a few who believe pesticides are safe.

Arguments in favour of pesticide use are often similar to the tired arguments heard from tobacco users – smokers, that is, who have not yet succumbed.

Unbiased testing and research results revealed the tobacco companies were lying to us, and that cigarette smoke is toxic and over the long term causes cancer. Companies that produce certain pesticides are also lying to us. Their products are toxic and, over the long term, can cause cancer and other health and environmental problems. These companies, like the tobacco companies, are not responsible. No long-term testing of products has been done.

It’s now known even low level exposure to pesticide ingredients can be hazardous, especially for children who are more sensitive and vulnerable than adults.

Bylaws prohibiting the use of pesticides will soon be in effect in White Rock, and Surrey will follow.

One needs to educate oneself and choose healthy alternatives. Wise choices include using organic products, natural fertilizers, mulch, compost and hand tools to weed, prune and sweep. Use natural pest-control methods and even allow a few weeds, insects and other “pests” in our gardens.

Organic gardening is understanding, allowing and interacting with all life forms in our environment. It is being one with nature. One becomes enlightened, aware and inclusive, not separate from and not controlling of nature. One avoids using chemicals on grass, or poisons on plants and insects, wrongly labelled “weeds” or “pests.” One avoids tree removal, or harmful, severe topping, or “pruning” with chainsaws.

One encourages whole trees and other plants. One appreciates the value of all life, in its natural form.

Our healthy children and the environment depend upon our wise choices.

Cal Pawson, White Rock