Save the Kentville Ravine!

We love the Kentville Ravine!
[Updated April 27, 2022] - Fundraising from this point onward will include some allocation towards protecting the neighbouring Hemlock stand in the Gorge park.

 

An invasive and destructive species known as Wooly Adelgid is migrating our way at a rapid pace. Unfortunately, this could mean the demise of the tall, stately Eastern Hemlock trees that distinguish the parks of Kentville. These include the Kentville Ravine and the Gorge.

The good news is there are treatments available to mitigate the effects of this pest. However, they are expensive and must be applied as soon as possible, otherwise the trees will be either lost or severely damaged.

We project a start date of fall 2022, as these insects have now been spotted in the town of Kentville and will begin to impact the trees imminently.

 

The treatment we have been researching involves the use of the chemical imidacloprid. Once injected into a tree, it kills HWA larvae and prevents further destruction. Although deadly to insects, this treatment is not known to be harmful to mammals .

 

Every donation of $45 will be enough to save one tree. We're starting with the goal of 222 donations (approx. $10 000).

 

Why Hemlocks? Eastern Hemlocks are known for their ability to form their habitats - creating a unique microclimate in which a multitude of organisms thrive . Not only are these ancient trees incredibly efficient at sequestering carbon from the atmosphere, but they also support life by acting as a heat sink in the summer, blocking out intense rays from waterways and the forest floor. We can only imagine the downstream impacts of these forest giants - things like fish migration, bird habitats, fire management, and heatwave resistance will all be impacted by their loss.

Protecting as much of this ecosystem as possible is crucial to the future of our valley. The unique beauty and restful atmosphere provided by the Kentville Ravine, as well as the Gorge should be preserved.

 

Support this mission today by sharing it on social media if you cannot afford to donate!

If you wish to support us in another way, please contact us! We need volunteers to make this mission a success!