Two significant studies to determine if tree planters’ health is threatened by working with fertilizers applied while planting and handling seedlings containing possible nursery residues are underway this spring.
The investigations contained in Occupational Exposures to Fertilizer and Contaminants in BC Tree Planters are jointly funded by WorkSafeBC and the BC Safe Silviculture Project in collaboration with Forest Engineering Research Institute of Canada (FERIC) and the School of Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, University of British Columbia. Field research is underway now with tree planting crews in the Interior. A final report is expected in the fall.