(Toronto, Ont.–Aug. 28, 2025) Aerial glyphosate spraying that was planned for Lake Huron’s North Shore area has been cancelled, according to the Ministry of Natural Resources and media reports.

The campaign was to begin earlier last week and would have seen several First Nations and non-First Nations communities impacted but was cancelled following widespread opposition and protest from community activists and concerned First Nations.

“We are encouraged that the ministry has listened to the voices of those who have long expressed concerns about the harmful impacts of herbicide spraying on our lands, waters, and traditional foods,” said Ontario Regional Chief Abram Benedict. “This decision reflects the power and persistence of grassroots organizations and First Nations who have tirelessly advocated for the protection of our territories. However, this is just one step. The cancellation is limited to this year and this area, and it’s imperative that the ministry take further action by implementing a province-wide ban on this harmful practice. Ontario must follow the lead of other jurisdictions and prioritize the health of our lands and people.”

Earlier this month, local First Nations, Stop the Spray Ontario and Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) Elders held a protest at Serpent River First Nation to demand that the province stop the aerial spraying of glyphosate on their territories. Around 100 people turned out to show support and Highway 17 was blocked for a brief period for a round dance ceremony.

Québec banned the practice of using glyphosate for the management of forested Crown lands in 2001. Other jurisdictions have also banned the practice or outright banned the herbicide.

“Herbicide spraying raises serious concerns about health and safety, and we must listen to the voices of those who have stewarded these lands for generations,” said Regional Chief Abram Benedict. “History has shown us the devastating consequences of allowing new technologies or pollutants to spread unchecked, without thorough study or regard for their long-term impacts. We cannot afford to repeat those mistakes.”

Chiefs of Ontario calls on the province to cease all aerial glyphosate spraying within the traditional territories of First Nations.

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The Chiefs of Ontario supports all First Nations in Ontario as they assert their sovereignty, jurisdiction, and their chosen expression of nationhood. Follow Chiefs of Ontario on Facebook, X, Instagram, or LinkedIn @ChiefsOfOntario

Media Contact:

Isak Vaillancourt
Communications Manager
Chiefs of Ontario
Telephone: 416-819-8184
Email: isak.vaillancourt@coo.org

Declan Keogh
Strategic Advocacy Manager
Chiefs of Ontario
Telephone: (514) 591-5375
Email: declan.keogh@coo.org