Weed & Tree Control

Private Land

In accordance with the Weed Control Act, property owners are responsible for spraying and removing noxious weeds on their property. The Township does not spray or pay for the spraying of noxious weeds on private property or private roads.

If a private road or property has an issue with noxious weeds (ex. poison ivy),  it is recommended that the neighbourhood association coordinate the spraying either with the County of Peterborough or independently at their expense.

Public Land

The Township of Selwyn uses Peterborough County Weed Inspectors to investigate and spray any noxious weeds reported on Township or County land, including road allowances. 

To contact a Weed Inspector, or if you require more information, visit the County of Peterborough website.

Additional Resources

• Noxious Weeds in Ontario
• Peterborough County Hazardous Plants Information Guide

Questions Related to Pesticide Use?

• Contact the Ministry of Environment at 1-800-565-4923.

The Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) is a highly destructive invasive beetle and pest of ash trees. It was confirmed as present in Canada in the summer of 2002. 

What does the EAB look like?

The beetle is metallic green in colour and is about ½ inch long. While the back of the insect is a shiny, metallic green, the underside is a bright emerald green.

How do I identify an Ash Tree?

• Branches and buds are directly across from each other and not staggered
• Leaves are compound and composed of 5-11 leaflets
• On mature trees, the bark is tight with a distinct pattern of diamond-shaped ridges

How does the EAB affect Ash trees?

EAB destroys the vascular structure that is responsible for delivering the water and nutrients to the canopy of the tree.

Does my Ash Tree have EAB?

• Upper canopy begins to thin, leaves show signs of under-development
• Early Summer/Fall Leaf Loss
• Sucker growth begins to grow out of the major crotches, branches and sometimes in more severe cases, at the base of the trunk
• D-shaped 1/8'' exit holes are made through the bark by EAB adults.
• Increased wood pecker activity. Emerald Ash Borer is a great food source for wood peckers.

Treatment Options

1. Removal: Infected trees should be cut down and the wood can be burned or chipped. Wood can also be taken to a landfill that accepts brush/trees. Wood cannot be relocated to any areas outside of the regulated area to avoid the spread of EAB.
   
   
2. Treatment: There are many different types of insecticides that are used to treat ash trees for EAB. These chemicals can be injected into the soil or poured into a trench at the base of the tree or injected into the tree base itself and bark. Foliage sprays may also be used. Applications of insecticide may need to be done over several years to remain effective. Contact a local arborist for details on treatment.

If you suspect EAB is present on your property, contact the Canadian Food Inspection Agency.