A recent research study conducted by the University of Ottawa has revealed that the application of woodchips on trails within wooded areas can significantly decrease local tick populations. This low-tech solution may help reduce the risk of tick bites and the transmission of Lyme disease to individuals walking in wooded areas.
The study was carried out in two locations in Ottawa’s Greenbelt: the Mer Bleue sector in the east and the Stony Swamp sector in the west. Researchers treated 20 sections of trails, each 50 meters long, with either untreated woodchips or woodchips treated with the pesticide deltamethrin.
Results indicated that the use of untreated woodchips led to a 50% reduction in tick numbers, while the application of woodchips treated with deltamethrin resulted in a 99% decrease in tick populations. Katarina Ost, a member of the research team, highlighted the effectiveness of this method in reducing tick presence during an interview on CBC Radio’s Ottawa Morning.
Woodchips are effective in deterring ticks as these parasitic arachnids typically climb vegetation, such as grass, to attach themselves to hikers or pets. By placing woodchips on trails, the growth of vegetation that ticks rely on to climb is inhibited. This method is particularly suitable for wide, heavily used trails with high tick densities.
Deltamethrin, the pesticide used on the woodchips, is safe for pets as it remains fixed on surfaces and does not pose a risk once applied. To prevent tick infestations in residential areas, the federal government recommends creating barriers of wood chips, mulch, or gravel around lawns to create an inhospitable environment for ticks.
Dr. Christopher Labos, a cardiologist and epidemiologist at McGill University, emphasized the importance of controlling tick populations to prevent the spread of tick-borne diseases like Lyme disease. Further research is needed to determine the direct impact of reducing tick populations on the incidence of Lyme disease.
While woodchips can effectively reduce tick numbers, it is essential for individuals to stay on designated paths to benefit from this preventive measure fully. Following standard precautions, such as wearing long pants, using insect repellent, and conducting tick checks after outdoor activities, is crucial in minimizing the risk of tick bites and associated diseases.