Invasive Species
Invasive species refers to any plant, animal, or insect that is not native to Ontario. The danger of invasive species is that they have the ability to compete with, and replace, native Ontario species in their natural habitat. Further, they may have no natural enemies or means of control to prevent rampant growth.
Most, if not all invasive species arrive as a result of human activity. Settlers brought plants to remind them of home. Insects were introduced to control a threat or perceived threat. Shipping allowed the transfer of plants through natural packing material, soil in ballast, and seeds in fodder.
Invasive species on Township property:
If you suspect an invasive species such as phragmites or giant hogweed is located on Township-owned property, please report it to the Public Works Department at 705-526-4204.
Giant Hogweed:
One invasive species of concern is Giant Hogweed. Giant hogweed is not new to Ontario, but it has become a growing concern for landowners. This invasive species can suffocate local vegetation and pose a serious health risk to people who come in contact with it. Giant hogweed sap causes severe dermatitis or burns and blisters on the skin. This sensitivity can last for several years after exposure. Please follow the links below to learn more about this species and how to identify it:
INFORMATION PIECE - GIANT HOGWEED
(July 2011 Edition of Township Community Page)
Phragmites:
Another invasive species is Phragmites. Although this plant does not pose a health risk to humans it does replace native grasses in their natural habitat. The following links provide more information about phragmites:
INVASIVE SPECIES - LINK TO LAKE HURON CENTRE FOR COASTAL CONSERVATION
PHRAGMITES AUSTRALIS CONTROL RESOURCE FOR PRIVATE PROPERTY OWNERS
Emerald Ash Borer:
The Emerald Ash Borer is an invasive insect native to eastern Asia that attacks and eventually destroys healthy ash trees. It was discovered in 2002 in Michigan and Ontario and likely came here in a shipment of untreated wooden packing material from Asia.
For more information on this invasive species, please follow the Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters (OFAH) Invading Species Awareness Program link below:
CANADIAN FOOD INSPECTION AGENCY INFORMATION - Emerald Ash Borer
AREAS REGULATED IN ONTARIO/QUEBEC - Emerald Ash Borer
OFAH INVADING SPECIES AWARENESS PROGRAM - Emerald Ash Borer
Links to information about other Invasive Species:
To find out more about invasive species, please click on one of the following links:
LIST OF INVASIVE ONTARIO PLANTS - LINK TO POWER HALTON
INVADING SPECIES - Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters
ONTARIO INVASIVE PLANT COUNCIL
COMMON BUCKTHORN - Best Management Practices
DOG STRANGLING VINE - Best Management Practices
Severn Sound Environmental Association Municipal Workshop: Invasive Species, April 2012:
ALIENS AMONG US - WEB REFERENCES
ALIENS AMONG US - WEB REFERENCES
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