Protecting Victoria Park’s Hemlocks from Invasive Threat
Truro, NS – April 9, 2025 – To safeguard Victoria Park’s hemlock tree population from the risk of the invasive Hemlock Woolly Adelgid (HWA), the Town of Truro is adopting an early intervention strategy that includes increased monitoring and surveys. Additionally, a chemical treatment program will be implemented to protect at-risk trees, with plans to introduce biological controls as part of a long-term management approach in the future.
While HWA has not yet been detected in Victoria Park, experts believe it is only a matter of time before the infestation reaches the area. HWA is a small, aphid-like insect that feeds on hemlock sap, causing the decline and eventual death of affected trees. First identified in Nova Scotia in 2017, HWA has since spread to at least seven counties in the southwestern part of the province.
“Our hemlocks are an essential part of Victoria Park’s natural landscape and ecological health,” said Scott Holman, Victoria Park & Urban Forestry Supervisor of the Town of Truro. “By taking proactive measures now, we aim to preserve these trees for future generations and mitigate the impact of this invasive pest.”
Eastern hemlocks are a vital part of Nova Scotia’s old-growth forests, providing shade, stabilizing soil, and supporting diverse ecosystems. In Victoria Park, below Lepper Brook Dam, approximately 12,000 hemlock trees form ten distinct stands, playing a crucial role in maintaining the park’s ecological balance and character.
To help mitigate the risk of HWA entering Victoria Park, residents can take several actions. First, it's best to avoid infested areas, especially between April and July, when the pest is most active. It's also crucial not to move firewood, branches, or outdoor equipment between forests, as this can inadvertently spread the infestation. When visiting different forests, wear clean clothing and wash it after being in areas known to be infested with HWA. Additionally, we ask residents to avoid parking near or under hemlock trees, as the pest may be more prevalent in these areas. People should also place bird feeders away from hemlocks to reduce the likelihood of spreading the infestation.
Community members and visitors can help by learning to identify HWA and reporting any suspected sightings to the Town of Truro’s Park, Recreation and Culture Department at 902-893-6078 or
Extensive information on HWA and the Town of Truro’s protection plan is available on the Town of Truro’s website at www.https://truro.ca/hemlock-wooley-adelgid-hwa.html
For more information, please contact:
Scott Holman Victoria Park & Urban Forestry Supervisor Town of Truro
Public Information Session
The Town of Truro will host a Public Information Session on May 6th, 2025, to share details of the treatment plan and provide an opportunity for residents to ask questions about HWA and the steps being taken to protect Victoria Park.
More details on the session (location and time) will be shared on the Town of Truro social media pages.
