Dave,
 
    Interesting to read that the US Interior Dept. is going through the
    process of risk assessment re. the proposed release of three
    non-indigenous insect species to control Purple Loosestrife.
 
    Purple Loosestrife was recognized in Canada as a highly aggressive
    invader of wetlands years ago.  Its current distribution is from coast to
    coast with the highest infestations (and impact) in Ontario, Quebec and
    to a lesser degree in British Columbia.  In an attempt to control it, the
    very same insect species were released in Ontario & Quebec in 1991, and
    in BC in 1992.   The nursery trade industry has been requested not to
    sell the plant anymore as this has been considered the original source of
    introduction.
 
    The point I am making is that the US risk assessment may have to take
    into consideration the fact that the proposed introduction of the
    controlling insect species will not be entirely unique for many areas
    (especially those close to the the Canadian border).
 
    Paul van Westendorp                         [log in to unmask]
    Provincial Apiarist
    British Columbia