16 - The Oakville Beaver, Friday July 4, 2008 www.oakvillebeaver.com Forest Tent Caterpillars and Fall Cankerworms in high cycle Halton Region is confirming what residents may have noticed -- that there are particularly high numbers of Forest Tent Caterpillars (Malacosoma disstria) and Fall Cankerworms (Alsophila pometaria) in trees throughout Halton. Although these insects do not generally pose a threat to healthy trees, many people view them as aesthetically unpleasing and a nuisance. The Forest Tent Caterpillar primarily feed on ash trees as well as poplar, maple and oak trees. They can reach up to 5 cm centimeters in length and can be identified by a footprintshaped white mark on the back with a blue line on either side. The caterpillars spin Munching caterpillars causing leaf loss silken pathways and mats but, unlike the closely related Eastern Tent Caterpillar, they do not make tents. Fall Cankerworms prefer the leaves of maples, red oak and apple trees. Young larvae may be seen hanging from silken threads. Fully grown caterpillars are approximately 2.5 cm in length in varying shades of green. Populations of Forest Tent Caterpillars and Fall Cankerworms rise and fall naturally in cycles and high populations may last up to four years. Multiple years of heavy defoliation by these insects can cause reduced tree growth and smaller leaf size. Trees weakened by other stress factors may be more susceptible and may die. Before applying any insecticide, it is important to read the label to ensure the target insect is listed for control by the product. Residents of the Town of Oakville should be aware of By-law No. 2007-036 regarding the use of pesticides. More information about the Forest Tent Caterpillar and Fall Cankerworm, and con- trol measures for these and other pests, can be found at www.halton.ca. The Regional Municipality of Halton serves more than 430,000 residents in Burlington, Halton Hills, Milton and Oakville. Halton Region delivers programs to residents including water and wastewater; regional roads and planning; emergency medical services; waste management; public health; Ontario Works (formerly social assistance); children's and seniors' services; social/non-profit housing; heritage programs; emergency management and business development. For more information, visit Halton Region's website at www.halton.ca. The Regional NOTICE OF CONSTRUCTION Municipality of Halton www.halton.ca 2008 ASPHALT RESURFACING AND INTERSECTION IMPROVEMENTS TOWN OF MILTON AND TOWN OF OAKVILLE CONTRACT NUMBER: SCHEDULED START DATE: SCHEDULED COMPLETION DATE: CONSTRUCTION SUPERVISOR: R-2492-08 JULY, 2008 NOVEMBER, 2008 BOB WICKLUND EXT. 7607 040708