Parks and Recreation: Buggin’ out
By Keziah Lesko-Gosselin on August 6, 2019.
Whether you own a pet tarantula or squeal at every ant you see, it is undeniable that bugs are significant components to life on earth. The estimated insect to human ratio is 200 million to one, meaning they greatly outnumber us. Bugs are capable of altering entire ecosystems, and greatly affect how humans manage land. Aside from being domestic nuisances, they can damage ecosystems and food sources, and are vectors for many diseases. However, most bugs are important components of the ecosystems we inhabit, helping maintain and regulate environmental health. Cantankerous Critter Humans can coexist in peace with most bugs in Alberta; however, some species out there are threatening to human and environmental health. Mosquitoes are a local example of insects capable of transmitting disease. Bites are annoying, but the risk of West Nile virus can be significant if weather and population conditions permit. While the City maintains mosquito control efforts, it is important to keep yourself safe by wearing light clothing that covers your skin, and using insect repellent. Some insects are even capable of transmitting diseases to vegetation. Locally, elm bark beetle poses a significant risk of Dutch elm disease. The Parks and Recreation Department participates in provincial elm bark beetle surveys, for which you may have seen glue traps around Medicine Hat. To minimize risk of Dutch elm disease, residents are prohibited from pruning elm trees between April 1 and October 1, and are encouraged to watch their elms for signs of poor health, which may indicate infection. The Parks and Recreation Department also participates in provincial monitoring programs for other invasive insect species, which may pose risks to local trees. For more information on tree diseases in Alberta, visit http://www.medicinehat.ca. Benevolent Bugs Not all insect species are concerning, and in fact some can help with environmental management. The City of Medicine Hat participates in the Alberta Invasive Species Council’s biocontrol program, which uses insects to control weeds like leafy spurge. Using biocontrol for invasive species management helps reduce pesticide use, and can have long-term positive impacts. Many bug species naturally present in ecosystems are pollinators, like bees, or can control undesired pests, like aphids. Even though some bugs can be hazardous or pose threats, most can be our friends. So next time you see an arthropod in your abode, consider taking it back outside to help the greater good! Keziah Lesko-Gosselin works with the City’s Parks and Recreation department, leading research initiatives and providing technical support for parks projects and operations. 9-8
