Biodiversity
Sustainable Public Park Proposal
Rain Garden Designs - Storm Water Management
Presentation to Stop “Chemical Use” in the Erie Metroparks
Prepared by L.C. Berlekamp and J.B. Pribanic on behalf of Erie Fresh in order to promote biodiversity
The following information was presented during a discussion with the Erie Metroparks Board of Park Commissions and their Executive Director on the use of chemical pesticides for controlling invasive plant species and weeds within the parks. It is the position of The Erie Wire that the use of certain chemicals is counter-productive to preserving the environment and that there are newer, safer methods available that will be cost-effective as long-term solutions.
We proudly support the Erie Metroparks as a valuable natural and recreational resource to the county. We are obliged to make recommendations and provide them with information in order to help keep them viable for the generations to come. We thank Executive Director Stephen Dice as well as Park Commissioners Kurt Landefeld, Tom Dusza and Micah Vawters for providing a public forum where such a discussion can take place. As of February 11, 2009, Erie Metroparks has agreed to look into options for an integrated pest management program using biological control methods to replace its use of chemical pesticides. We look forward to working with them in the coming seasons.
Presentation Package Distributed to Erie Metroparks – 02/11/09
Message from the Erie County Coalition for Local Resources
After presenting to the Erie Metroparks and discussing the issue further the Erie County Coalition for Local Resources believes it is in the best interest of the Metroparks to adopt the suggested use of calcium applications, found within the book “Weeds: Control Without Poisons” (Charles Waters), to deter thistle development; and to begin physically removing plants at their base during the time of flowering. The ECCLR is also advocating that the metroparks apply gypsum to the soil areas of Canada Thistle, since it is well documented that a well balanced level of calcium in the soil will deter and prevent Canadian Thistles. With this approach the ECCLR believes the Erie Metroparks can begin to better control and eliminate the Canada Thistle problem without posing a threat to the area watersheds.
