There are patches of poison ivy beside the Lakeview Trail in Long Lake Provincial Park. If you are unfamiliar with poison ivy, the presence of this plant near the trail provides a good opportunity to learn to recognize the plant so that it can be avoided should you come across it again.
Why should poison ivy be avoided?
Poison ivy is one a several plants that produce a noxious oily substance called urushiol. Urushiol produces an itchy long-lasting rash on the skin of people who come in contact with it. It isn’t even necessary to touch the plant itself to suffer from the rash. For example, a dog might brush against the plant and when the dog is stroked enough of the oil can be transferred to a person’s skin. If the itchy spot is rubbed, then a bit of the oil can be transferred to another part of the body causing the rash to spread. While the itch is not life-threatening, it is very uncomfortable.
What does the plant look like?
Poison ivy has leaves and flowers that are quite distinctive. The leaves are pointed and in threes as shown in the following photograph.
Poison ivy has small yellow flowers that are present in clusters arising from the stem beneath the leaves, as shown in the following photograph.
For more information about the poison ivy plant, click on this link
Where is the poison ivy located at the Lakeview Trail?
Poison ivy is present in two patches on either side of the trail at the stream that runs from Witherod Lake to Long Lake. The following map shows the location.
The poison ivy is located by a bridge over a stream, as shown in the following photograph.
What to do if you accidentally touch poison ivy?
Touching poison ivy does not always produce a rash, but it is wise to take precautions if you have touched it by accident. Avoid touching other parts of your body, especially your eyes. At the earliest opportunity wash your hands, preferably using soapy water. There is a good description of the recommended precautions at this link.
Can the poison ivy plants be eliminated?
It would be very difficult to eliminate the poison ivy plants from the park due to the rough terrain and the nature of the plant. Poison ivy has been in the park at this location for a long time and there are many patches of it around Halifax, so it is better to learn to identify the plant than to try to eradicate it. The species is native to eastern North America and so it is part of the natural flora of the park.
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