A recent study conducted by University of Ottawa researchers has shown that applying woodchips to woodland trails can lead to a significant decrease in local tick populations. This low-tech solution could help reduce the risk of tick bites and Lyme disease for individuals walking in forested areas. The research was carried out in Ottawa’s Greenbelt, specifically in the Mer Bleue and Stony Swamp sectors.
The study involved treating 20 trail sections, each 50 meters long, with either untreated woodchips or woodchips treated with the pesticide deltamethrin. Results indicated that areas with untreated woodchips saw a 50% reduction in tick numbers, while those with pesticide-treated woodchips experienced a 99% decrease, as reported by Katarina Ost, a member of the research team.
Woodchips are effective in deterring ticks because these arachnids typically climb vegetation, such as grass, to attach themselves to hikers or pets. By placing woodchips on trails, the growth of the necessary climbing vegetation is hindered, reducing opportunities for ticks to attach.
The pesticide used, deltamethrin, was found to have a more significant impact on tick reduction. It was emphasized that deltamethrin poses no threat to pets walking on the treated woodchips as it has limited mobility once adhered to a surface.
To prevent tick bites in residential settings, the government recommends creating a border of wood chips, mulch, or gravel around lawns to create an inhospitable environment for ticks. Dr. Christopher Labos from McGill University highlighted the importance of controlling tick populations at their source to prevent the spread of tick-borne diseases.
While reducing tick populations is a positive step, further studies are needed to determine if this directly correlates with a decrease in Lyme disease cases. It is essential to ensure that individuals remain on marked trails to benefit from the protective effects of woodchips.
