Environmental Gardening Extra

A model for other communities

”Bio”Gardening - A small town leads

I know that many readers of these newsletters are as interested in native plant gardening and low-input pest control as they are in the wildlife they encounter both in their gardens and out walking. After a long period of community discussion, contributed to by an advisory group of residents and councillors, bylaws have been updated and today this message to residents was circulated.

I put it out there as a model that might be copied or used by people in other communities who are seeking ways to make their local environment healthier.

The message reads:

… the Town adopted an updated by-law regulating the use of pesticides and fertilizers. It continues to be guided by a strong commitment to public health, safety, and environmental protection. The update considers some exceptional circumstances while reflecting a preventive approach aimed at reducing potential risks to residents and wildlife, protecting local ecosystems and waterways, and encouraging more sustainable landscape practices throughout the community.

This by-law builds on long-standing efforts to minimize the use of pesticides and promote healthier outdoor environments. By strengthening prevention and focusing on soil health, the Town is taking concrete steps to support the well-being of residents, wildlife, and natural areas, while providing more specific guidance for property owners. At the heart of the regulation is a simple principle: healthy soil supports healthy plants. When living soil is well cared for, plants are more resilient to stress, disease, and pests, reducing the need for products and repeated interventions over time. This approach benefits individual properties and contributes to the overall health of the community.

Encouraged practices - Residents are encouraged to adopt practices that improve soil quality and long-term plant resilience. These include adding compost or organic matter, mulching garden beds and around trees, aerating compacted soils and selecting plants that are well suited to local growing conditions. Together, these practices help improve soil structure, support biological activity, retain moisture, and promote stronger root systems. Over time, they contribute to healthier lawns, gardens, trees, and landscaped areas, while reducing reliance on products.

Clearly regulated products - The updated by-law continues to prohibit products intended to kill pests (pesticides), as well as synthetic fertilizers. While some products may be marketed as “organic” or “natural,” they are not automatically permitted under the regulation and are assessed based on their function and intended use. The by-law instead encourages a soil-based approach. Products intended to improve soil health, such as compost, mulch, soil amendments, and humic acids, are permitted and encouraged when used appropriately. These products support soil structure and biological activity, contributing to healthier, more resilient landscapes over time.

Signage and exceptional situations - In rare and exceptional situations related to public health or serious infestations, pesticide use may be authorized only through a temporary permit. These permits are issued under strict conditions and only after non-chemical and preventive measures have been fully considered. This ensures that exceptional cases can be addressed responsibly while maintaining the Town’s commitment to minimizing pesticide use. In the case of permitted exceptions, clear signage helps inform nearby residents and supports public awareness regarding the use of products on properties. The updated by-law strengthens signage requirements to ensure greater transparency when landscape treatments are carried out by a third party. Specific signage may vary depending on the type of product used and the nature of the application.