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Invasive species are a growing concern for ecosystems around the world. These are plants, animals, insects, or fish that have been introduced to new environments by human activities, either intentionally or accidentally. Living outside their natural habitats, invasive species can often thrive unchecked, leading to significant disruptions in local ecosystems, harm to native species, and various economic and health issues.
| What is an Invasive Species? |
| Invasive species are animals (insects, fish, animals or plants) either land based (terrestrial) or water based (aquatic) that have been introduced to an area by the actions of humans. These species live outside of their natural ecosystems. While some invasive species do not cause problems, many of these species cause significant problems, disrupting the natural ecology of an area, damaging other, native species and, in some cases, causing damage to agriculture or homes. Some also have human health concerns. |
| How did they get here? |
| Invasive species arrive in many ways. Some arrive accidentally – it is thought that the Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) which is killing ash trees across North America, likely arrived on package crates. Some spread as humans move around – the Zebra Mussel is spreading from lake to lake on uncleaned boats and fishing equipment. Others are deliberately planted as part of gardens – Knotweed was brought to Canada as an ornamental plant and is now an invasive species that is banned from sale or planting. |
| What is the problem with Invasive Species? |
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The main challenge with invasive species is that once they arrive in an area, as they do not have natural predators, or species that keep their population under control, they can rapidly take over and dominate an area. For example:
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| How many invasive species are there? |
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There are many 100’s of invasive species in Ontario, all of which are a concern. However, the government currently lists 43 species specifically under the Invasive Species Act that are either prohibited or restricted. These are the species that cause the most significant concern due to their impact on agriculture, natural ecosystems, other species or because they spread aggressively. Noxious Weeds are a subgroup of Invasive Species. There are 25 species of Noxious Weeds that are identified under the Weed Control Act. |
| How can I help? |
| The first way to help is to be aware of Invasive Species, and what they can do. Being able to recognise some common ones and being aware if you see them around you is also good. One of the common ways in which invasive species are introduced is via gardens. So making sure you buy native, local plants for your garden and get soil and compost from local sources will help avoid bringing in invasive species. Many invasive species can easily be managed before they get established; so quick action is important. Some invasive species can be harmful to human health, so make sure to check before you try to work on invasive species. If you think you see an invasive species, you can report it at Reporting Invasive Species. |
| What does the Municipality do? |
| The municipality is responsible, as a landowner, to manage Noxious Weeds that grow on our property. In Georgian Bluffs, we undertake annual treatment of Wild Chervil and Giant Hogweed, both of which are found in areas across the Township. The Township also responds to and manages other Noxious Weeds that we identify on Township lands. Through our work as a municipality, we take steps to not encourage the spread of Invasive species, and, when we undertake planting, we plant native species of trees and plants. The municipality works in partnership with the County of Grey and agencies such as the Conservation Authority, to help manage invasive species and their impacts. |