Hemlock Conservation Stewardship Series: A 3-part webinar series on managing Hemlock Woolly Adelgid (HWA) in Nova Scotia
This three-part webinar series is designed to equip woodland stewards with practical, research-informed tools for responding to Hemlock Woolly Adelgid (HWA), an invasive, aphid-like insect that has been devastating hemlock forests in Nova Scotia since its discovery in 2017. Across the series, woodland stewards will explore adaptive silviculture approaches, chemical treatment options, and biological control research to support both immediate action and long-term hemlock conservation.
Webinar 1: Chemical Treatment Options and Resources for Woodland Stewards (February 26th)
Speakers: Jessica Ihlen and Matt Miller
This webinar will focus on systemic insecticide treatments that can help woodland stewards protect hemlock trees from Hemlock Woolly Adelgid (HWA). Systemic insecticides are currently the only proven short-term method for saving infested hemlocks. Preserving mature hemlocks and trees in riparian areas is especially important, as these forests provide cooling shade, wildlife habitat, soil stability, and stream protection.
As staff with the Medway Community Forest Cooperative (MCFC), presenters Jessica Ihlen and Matt Miller will share an overview of MCFC’s HWA program, including treatment planning resources, decision-making tools, and practical guidance to help woodland stewards determine when chemical treatment is appropriate. Woodland stewards will leave with clear steps for identifying priority trees, understanding treatment considerations, and making informed choices to protect hemlock on their property.
Webinar 2: Understanding Biological Control & Research in Nova Scotia (March 5th)
Speakers: Jeff Fidgen and Dr. Kirk Hillier
This webinar will focus on biological control, a long-term strategy that uses natural predators to reduce Hemlock Woolly Adelgid (HWA) populations. Current research in Nova Scotia includes evaluating and releasing specialist predators such as Laricobius nigrinus, a beetle that feeds exclusively on HWA and has shown promise for establishing in affected stands. This work is advancing with federal and provincial support for predator rearing and release programs within a broader integrated management approach.
Presenters Jeff Fidgen and Dr. Kirk Hillier will share current findings on predator establishment, research progress, and how biological control fits within long-term hemlock conservation. Woodland stewards will leave with a clearer understanding of the role biological control can play in sustaining hemlock ecosystems as part of a resilient, multi-faceted approach to managing HWA.
Webinar 3: Silviculture Strategies to Help Prepare & Adapt your Woodland for HWA (March 19)
Speakers: Mary Jane Rodger and Michael Stastny
This webinar will focus on silviculture strategies that help woodland stewards prepare for, and adapt to, the arrival of Hemlock Woolly Adelgid (HWA). Practices such as stand thinning can improve tree vigour in advance of infestation. Silviculture can also play a mitigative role in cases where insecticide treatments are feasible, where the focus is on promoting species and structural diversity.
Presenters Mary Jane Rodger and Michael Stastny will share practical guidance informed by ongoing research and on-the-ground management experience. Woodland stewards will gain clear considerations and proactive steps to help conserve and strengthen hemlock stands before and after HWA establishment, supporting long-term forest resilience and ecological health.