Canada's environment is
filled with many wonders. 
From our vast forests and lakes
of clean fresh water,
to the fertile land where we 
grow food for much of the world.
Canada has its share of
native pests.
However,  changes in climate and
movement of people and goods
can bring in new,
invasive pests.
Both types of pests can
threaten our natural resources,
crops and gardens.
Pesticides play an important
role in managing pests.
So how can we be sure that
pesticides are not damaging
the environment they are
designed to protect?
Scientists at Health Canada care
about this too...
They work to make sure
pesticides won't harm
the environment when they 
are used properly.
Before a pesticide is approved
for use,
Health Canada scientists
complete a thorough,
science-based risk assessment
to determine
if these products can be
used safely.
This includes evaluating
hundreds of studies
to understand potential
effects on birds,
fish, mammals, plants
and insects.
As part of the risk assessment, 
Health Canada scientists look at
pesticide EXPOSURE
in the environment.
Which includes when, where
and how much pesticide
could come into contact with
plants and wildlife.
They also examine the potential
EFFECTS a pesticide
may have on plants and animals.
Scientists look at many
laboratory and field studies
on a wide variety of  species.
Once the scientists
have studied
the pesticide's exposure and
effects, they determine
the potential level of the risk 
to the environment.
They then figure out the best
way to manage these risks.
Managing risk can include
restricting  how and where
a pesticide can be used.
A pesticide may only be
used in Canada
after Health Canada's
scientists have confirmed
that it won't harm
the environment.
The instruction and safety
precautions that appear
on the pesticide product
label are there
to protect you and
the environment.
So, the next time you need
to use a pesticide
look for the registration
number to make sure
the product is authorized for
use by Health Canada ...
And remember to follow the
directions on the label.
All of these steps are taken
to protect you,
your family and the
environment.
For more information, go to
Canada.ca/pesticides
A message from the
government of Canada.
