Invasive Species

Invasive species often lack natural predators in their new environments. This allows them to grow and spread unchecked, outcompeting native species and altering ecosystems. Here are two examples:

• Phragmites: A tall, aggressive reed that spreads quickly, displacing native plants and altering soil chemistry. Phragmites reduces habitat availability for native animals and insects.
• Emerald Ash Borer (EAB): This insect attacks ash trees, killing them by boring into their trunks. EAB is expected to wipe out nearly all ash trees in Ontario within decades, as there are no natural predators to control its population.

Ontario is home to hundreds of invasive species. Under the Invasive Species Act, 43 species are classified as either prohibited or restricted due to their significant impact on ecosystems, agriculture, or human health.

Additionally, Ontario’s Weed Control Act identifies 25 noxious weed species that pose a threat to agriculture or public spaces.

As a landowner, the municipality actively manages invasive species on its properties. In Georgian Bluffs, we take several steps to address this issue:

• Annual Treatment Programs: We treat invasive plants like Wild Chervil and Giant Hogweed on municipal lands.
• Planting Native Species: Our landscaping and replanting efforts focus on native trees and plants to discourage the spread of invasive species.
• Collaborative Efforts: We work closely with partners like the County of Grey and local conservation authorities to manage invasive species and mitigate their impacts.