Biological control uses parasites, predators and pathogens to reduce another organism’s density to a level lower. Biological control is part of an integrated pest management approach. The TNRD provides biological control agents FREE of charge to eligible program participants*.
Biological control is suitable for invasive plant infestations where other management strategies are neither cost-effective nor environmentally desirable. A good example of such an area are large knapweed infestations in open grasslands or adjacent to water bodies where herbicide application is not allowed.
Biological control agents (insects) weaken the target plant’s seed production and overall plan integrity by feeding on the seed heads, and other parts of the plant, such as their root systems. Biological control will not typically get rid of your weeds all together, and its results are usually seen over numerous years. It is a long-term control strategy.
Agents are available in the TNRD for the following invasive plant species:
- Spotted knapweed
- Diffuse knapweed
- Dalmatian toadflax
- Leafy spurge
- St. John’s Wort
- Hound’s tongue
- Canada thistle
- Select thistle species
Insects will be made available upon available resources, on a first come first serve basis and will be delivered based on the timing of the insects emergence throughout the summer months.
* TNRD residents and residents of the following municipalities are eligible for this program: City of Merritt, District of Clearwater, District of Logan Lake, Sun Peaks Mountain Resort Municipality, Village of Clinton.
How to Apply
Biocontrol Agent Factsheets
Biocontrol Request Form
Do you already have insects present on your property? If you already have the target biological control insect on your property, you likely do not need to request more. Established insects will continue to self disperse with time. Please ensure you have monitored your infestations for insects prior to placing your request. There are resources available to help you identify and monitor your infestations for target insects:
1. How to Identify Bicontrols for Select Knapweed Species Video
2. Biological control agent factsheets for select invasive plant and insects (see above).