Based on a recommendation from the CVRD's Environment Commission, the board agreed to consider looking at a ban on cosmetic pesticides.
"This is an issue that we broached here at the CVRD many years ago," Director Jon Lefebure said. "There are much increased number of jurisdictions that have now banned cosmetic pesticides and some indication that the province is supportive of that. We thought that the board should have another look."
The board will have a more detailed look at the issue during future meetings.
"It would be very helpful is staff did a review of what has happened in other jurisdictions," Lefebure said. "I think that would be a great start."
The province of Ontario banned cosmetic pesticides on Earth Day, April 22, 2009. According to that government's Ministry of Environment, "Ontario's lawns, gardens, school yards and parks are a lot healthier since the province's cosmetic pesticides ban came into effect."
Closer to home, B.C.'s Ministry of Environment did do a web-based survey on the cosmetic use of pesticides in 2009 and 2010. Work has continued through the years but has yet to result in a provincewide ban.