KAWARTHA LAKES- When signs, warning of chemical spraying, started popping up along area highways, alarm bells went off for local resident Susan Frank. “My concerns are people will get sick….we are not on watermains, all rural and on well water.” Frank told Kawartha 411.
The signs have been found on County Road 17, Highway 36, Highway 35 and others.
The City of Kawartha Lakes says its necessary to help keep invasive species in check.
“Application of a registered and controlled herbicide is applied to strategic locations to control noxious weeds (such as Giant Hogweed, Poison Ivy and Wild Parsnip) and to clear weeds around traffic barriers (guiderails). This is a standard process within most municipalities and on provincial roads (MTO).” says Bryan Robinson , Director of Public Works
Frank is outraged that the city is using such a dangerous chemical when in her opinion it’s not necessary. “The spraying of the Guard Rails is for what reason? Cosmetic? Essential? Seriously… How about in the winter when we have 3 feet of snow on those guard rails, how essential is the spraying then?”
The chemical being used is called Glyphosate according to the city. Glyphosate is a broad spectrum herbicide used to kill weeds and grasses that compete with crops according to Wikipedia. It was discovered in 1970 and marketed under the name Roundup. In 2015 the World Health organization found Glyphosate was “probably carcinogenic to humans” but other studies have shown the opposite.
800 cancer patients in the United States are suing Monsanto, the maker of Roundup, claiming it gave them cancer.
Glyphosate is a non-selective herbicide, meaning it will kill most plants. The areas around where the chemical has been sprayed appear to have been be burned.
County Road 36 near Dunsford
Frank not only takes issue with the chemical itself but where and how it is being sprayed, in some cases very close to lakes and streams. “This stuff goes “poof” I was told in water, in other words it travels quickly. In the area’s of spraying, dead frogs… and lots of spraying by Water sources. Which is a no no.”
But the City says it is following all the guidelines for application. “Chemicals are applied by a licensed Contractor in accordance with applicable Provincial legislation under contract with the City. The applicators under contract are licensed and trained to ensure application is undertaken in a responsible manner and in accordance with applicable legislation.” Robinson told Kawartha 411
Frank insist they aren’t following the rules. “Health Canada also said labels need to introduce “spray buffer zones” to protect plants and aquatic plants from Roundup.” The BUFFER zones here have not even been a consideration…they might as well of sprayed this into the Streams and ponds,with all the rain as well, bloody sad.”
The City spends about $88,402 a year to control weeds on assumed roadways.
The fact sheet on Glyphosate says products containing glyphosate may cause eye or skin irritation. People who breathed in spray mist from products containing glyphosate felt irritation in their nose and throat. Swallowing products with glyphosate can cause increased saliva, burns in the mouth and throat, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Fatalities have been reported in cases of intentional ingestion.
Pets may also be at risk if they touch or eat plants that are still wet with spray.
The City has no plans to curb the use of the chemicals.
