Hemlock Woolly Adelgid confirmed in Nova Scotia

Pest detected in Digby, Yarmouth and Shelburne counties

August 3, 2017 – Ottawa, ON – Canadian Food Inspection Agency

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has confirmed the presence of hemlock woolly adelgid, a regulated pest, in three counties in southwestern Nova Scotia. This is the first time the pest has been detected in Atlantic Canada.

To date, hemlock woolly adelgid has been found in Digby, Yarmouth and Shelburne counties. The CFIA continues to conduct surveys in the areas where the pest was found to determine its spread. Regulatory measures will be put in place as required once the survey work is completed.

Hemlock woolly adelgid is an aphid-like insect that attacks and kills hemlock trees. Its egg sacs, which look like cotton balls or clumps of snow, can be found at the base of needles. It can be spread by wind, animals, and human movement of nursery stock, logs, and other wood products including firewood. You can help prevent the spread of this and other plant pests by buying your firewood where you plan to burn it. If you think you have seen signs of hemlock woolly adelgid in your area, notify the CFIA.

The CFIA is continuing to work with federal and provincial partners to conduct surveys and will update stakeholders and the public as more information becomes available.

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