Help keep Harrison Hot Springs Naturally Refreshed

Background

Based on a recommendation from the Environmental Advisory Committee, Council gave first two readings to Pesticide Use Regulation Bylaw No. 1245, 2026.

What is this bylaw and why is it needed?

• This draft bylaw aims to regulate the use of certain pesticides for cosmetic purposes on residential and public land in Harrison Hot Springs.
• Before adopting this bylaw, we are seeking community feedback.
• A cosmetic pesticide bylaw:
  • Protects local waterways from pesticide runoff which helps maintain water quality and the safety of the beaches, lakefront and natural environment;
  • Helps protect pollinators and wildlife like bees, butterflies, birds, and other species that contribute to healthy ecosystems;
  • Reduces chemical exposure to residents and pets in parks, boulevards, residential neighbourhoods and other public spaces; and
  • Supports the Village’s strategic priority of Environmental Protection – to restore and protect the environment for future generations.

What is a pesticide?

• The term “pesticide” means anything used to prevent, destroy or repel troublesome organisms
• This catch-all term covers insecticides, herbicides and fungicides

What is cosmetic use?

• Cosmetic use means maintaining outdoor trees, shrubs, flowers, ornamental plants and turf.
• The draft bylaw only applies to cosmetic use. It does not apply to the use of pesticides on or inside a building, or to control alien invasive species, invasive plants or noxious weeds.
• It also does not apply to the use of pesticides by a certified applicator or company for the specific purpose of controlling an infestation of pests that could significantly damage or destroy gardens and turf.

What pesticides are allowed to be used?

• Pesticides listed in schedule 2 of the Integrated Pest Management Regulation can be used for any purpose, including cosmetic use.
• This includes vinegar-based herbicides, garden sulphur, insecticidal soaps, corn gluten meal and iron-based weed killers.

What pesticides are NOT allowed to be used?

• If the pesticide does not appear in schedule 2 above, then its use would not be permitted for cosmetic purposes.
• This includes synthetic chemical pesticides such as glyphosate, 2,4-D, malathion, carbaryl and diazinon.
• These types of pesticides are not targeted to a specific pest and can impact other types of plants, animals and insects.

Let the Weeds Go Wild

• Dandy Dandelions: Leave the perfect lawns to the golf courses and consider letting those dandelions flourish. Dandelions provide early spring food for pollinators, like bees and small birds. Their deep roots don’t only make them hard to pull – they also bring up minerals from underground contributing to soil health and break up hard soil.
• Clever Clover: Clover also provides early spring food for pollinators. Did you know that it acts as a natural fertilizer by releasing rich nitrogen into the soil? It’s low maintenance – it requires little mowing, much less water than grass, and no fertilizing. It often stays green even during hot dry spells.
• Magic Moss: Moss can pull carbon dioxide from the air, filter water and provide shelter for insects.

Keep Streams and Waterways Naturally Refreshed

• This bylaw can help reduce the amount of chemical pesticides being washed into storm drains, ditches, streams and lakes.
• Less chemicals in our waterways means protecting sensitive ecosystems, like the Miami River, which has been identified as a critical habitat for endangered species like the Salish Sucker
• Our waterways are home to many diverse flora and fauna; from tiny insects, to fish, birds and mammals.

We want to hear from you!

• Choosing lower risk, targeted pesticides for cosmetic purposes starts with homeowners.
• When we work together to use products that are safer for the environment, we have a better chance at making a meaningful difference in the health and wellbeing of our local ecosystems.

We want to hear from you – take our short survey and let us know your thoughts about this proposed bylaw and other suggestions to strengthen environmental stewardship efforts in our community.