An Alberta aerial application company has been fined $3,000 for killing
trees on two properties adjacent to the field that was sprayed.
Walter Thompson of Thompson Agricultural Aviation Inc. of Westlock
pleaded guilty in provincial court May 13 to charges under Alberta’s
Environmental Protection and Enhancement Act.
Maple and birch trees in farmyards in two neighbouring properties were
killed and several other trees injured when Thompson sprayed 2,4-D
Amine 600 by air on a Perryvale area pasture to reduce sapling willow
growth in August 1999, said Kim Hunt with Alberta Environment.
In 1999 it was legal to apply the chemical by air, said Janet McLean of
Alberta Environment, but maple and birch trees are sensitive to
chemical spray.
The judge did not award damages for the trees that were killed. The
offence was against the crown, said McLean.
Often in cases where there are damages, the two sides wait until after
a court decision to initiate civil action for the cost of the trees or
come to agreement out of court for damages.
