**NEW**
- it doesn't have any predators so once established there's no natural controls
- it spreads very easily -- by wind, birds and humans
- it has a track record of wiping out entire Hemlock forests
What does it mean for Nova Scotia? (updated July 2022)
- HWA is well established in the seven western counties
- die back is occurring in the areas first affected
- the trend is clear -- our hemlock are in trouble
Why should I care about Hemlock?
- it has some commercial value
- it is our oldest living tree and very important to the forest
- it sequesters lots and lots and lots of carbon
- hugely important for stabilizing waterways by slowing water flow
- if you fish ... it shades streams and rivers to keep the water cooler and healthier for fish
- if you hunt ... hemlock groves are important habitat for wintering deer
- if you are a naturalist ... important nesting habitat for birds
What can I do?
- Early detection means there are more options for dealing with it. If you see a snowy, cotton-like growth on Hemlocks anywhere in the province, try and get a picture and email hwa@nshemlock.ca
- HWA is inside the cotton-like growth and it is very small -- about the size of a pencil dot -- so you probably won't see it. From April to August, HWA start to move about and if it gets on you, your gear or your pets, it can be carried to a new location. If you travel in areas known to have HWA, please take precautions to prevent the spread by cleaning your gear. A lint brush works well
- Please do not move firewood. If you go camping, acquire your firewood where you burn it
More information
- New resource for Hemlock health in Nova Scotia - nshemlock.ca
- Concise information on HWA from the Canadian Invasive Species Centre is [ here ]
- The Canadian Food Inspection Agencies plan for HWA is [ here ]
- A Scientific Journal article on HWA [ here ]