Invasive Species

Invasive species are a significant threat to ecosystems, biodiversity, and human activities in Ontario and beyond. These plants, animals, insects, or aquatic species are introduced to new environments—intentionally or accidentally—through human actions. Without natural predators, invasive species can spread rapidly, causing harm to local ecosystems, native species, and even human health and the economy.

Invasive species are organisms living outside their natural habitats. They can thrive in both land-based (terrestrial) and water-based (aquatic) environments. While not all introduced species are harmful, many disrupt the balance of ecosystems, threaten native plants and animals, and damage agriculture, infrastructure, or public health.

Invasive species arrive in a variety of ways:

Accidental Introduction: Species like the Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) likely arrived in North America hidden in shipping materials like wooden crates.
Unintentional Transport: Zebra Mussels are transported from lake to lake on unclean boats and fishing equipment.
Deliberate Planting: Some invasive plants, such as Knotweed, were introduced as ornamental garden species before their negative impacts were understood.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why Are Invasive Species a Problem?

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.

How Many Invasive Species Are in Ontario?

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.

What Does the Municipality Do?

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.

How You Can Help

You play a vital role in preventing the spread of invasive species. Here’s how:

Learn to Identify Them: Familiarise yourself with common invasive species in your area.
Garden Responsibly: Avoid planting invasive species. Choose native plants and purchase soil and compost from local sources.
Inspect and Clean: Clean your boats, fishing gear, and other equipment to prevent transferring invasive species between water bodies.
Act Quickly: Many invasive species are easier to control if caught early. Report sightings to the Ontario Invasive Species Hotline at 1-800-563-7711 or online reporting tools.

Township of Georgian Bluffs
177964 Grey Road 18,
Owen Sound, ON N4K 5N5

Send Email to Georgian Bluffs
Phone: 519-376-2729
Fax: 519-372-1620