Protect trees and farms from invasive pests
August is Tree Check Month — a perfect time to start a habit that helps protect trees all year long. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) is encouraging Canadians, especially farmers, to check trees and woodlots regularly for invasive pests.
Trees are essential to farms and the environment. They give shade, act as windbreaks, clean the air, support wildlife, and improve the beauty and health of our communities. On farms, trees help protect crops and livestock while enriching the soil.
It takes only a few minutes to check trees for signs of trouble. Watch for small holes in the bark, sawdust at the base, dead branches, or leaves falling too early. Regular checks help detect problems early and protect your trees before the damage spreads.
Threats like invasive pests and tree diseases are real. Knowing which pests are common in your area helps you know what to look for. If you see anything unusual, report it to the CFIA right away. Early reporting is key to stopping pests before they spread further.
Make it a family mission — CFIA has awesome activity guides for kids designed to empower the next generation of citizen scientists! These fun, easy-to-follow resources teach kids how to spot invasive species and plant diseases — and most importantly, how to report them to protect our environment.
Farmers, families, and all Canadians are encouraged to make tree checks a regular habit. It’s a small action that can make a big difference in protecting our trees, farms, and green spaces.
For more information and helpful tools, visit the CFIA website and join the effort to protect Canada’s trees.
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