The science might be up for debate, but a group of doctors concerned about the environment says 75% of Ottawa residents support a ban on pesticides for residential property. The Canadian Association of Physicians for the Environment yesterday released a survey claiming that only 14% use pesticides, compared to three-quarters who want them eliminated from regular use.

"Pesticides are widely unpopular in Ottawa. Taken together, these data give city councillors all the ammunition they need to bring in a bylaw," said Gideon Forman, the association's executive director.

HEALTH ISSUES

The association links pesticides to human health problems and is calling on local politicians to bring in restrictions against the lawn care products -- even on private property.

The survey also found that 70% of residents believe a bylaw restricting pesticide use -- along with an education campaign on how residents can have a healthy, chemical-free lawn -- would be the best way to bring in the necessary changes.

"The vast majority of residents in this city want public education teamed up with a city bylaw," said Forman.

The association released the poll's findings at a news conference attended by the city's medical officer of health, Dr. Robert Cushman.

Cushman said a bylaw restricting pesticide use will soon be drafted. He feels Ottawa should join the ranks of other municipalities that have taken similar action.

FOCUS ON CHILDREN

Cushman said the pesticide fight is different than the battle against smoking he successfully waged years ago.

"You can't bring in wheelbarrows of evidence (against pesticides) the way you can for tobacco. No one is addicted to pesticides and we're talking about cosmetic use," he said.

"I think it's time we really start thinking more about our children and our grandchildren than pristine lawns."

The survey, conducted by Oracle Poll, involved 525 randomly selected Ottawa homes and is considered accurate within plus or minus 4.3 percentage points, 19 times out of 20.

john.steinbachs@ott.sunpub.com