Invasive species are plants, animals or other organisms that are not native to this area, and that cause significant harm to people, economies, or the environment.
The spread of invasive species is a serious threat to biodiversity world-wide, second only to habitat loss resulting from economic growth. If left uncontrolled, invasive species can have serious local impacts to the City’s parks, public spaces, environmentally sensitive areas and private lands. They can damage wetlands, water quality and even infrastructure.
A CITY PRIORITY
Management of invasive plant species is identified as a priority action in the SCR Framework: Campbell River's Integrated Community Sustainability Plan and contributes to the City's obligations to control noxious weed imposed by the provincial Weed Control Act. For more information on the City's role in managing invasive species, please see the City's Invasive Species Policy (part of the City’s Environment Policy), and the Invasive Plant Management Plan.
The City’s Environmental Protection Bylaw also regulates defined noxious weeds, including all four knotweeds, giant hogweed and yellow flag iris and invasive plants including Scotch broom, by restricting planting and requiring removal.
NOT FOR THE WILD
In Campbell River, the City, in partnership with other organizations, makes an effort to prevent, eradicate, contain and control invasive species. Often, these invasive species are introduced or spread by people.
For example, the City has encountered invasive species (like goldfish), and invasive plants (like yellow flag iris), in natural areas around Campbell River. When released in the wild, these species pose a threat to the native environment and require significant work and financial resources to manage.
It’s important to remember that some species are ‘Not for the Wild’ – and to properly contain or dispose responsibly of any species that could be invasive.
WHAT YOU CAN DO
Wondering how to help? Here are some ways you can help prevent and control invasive species in our community:
For more information on invasive species and how to properly manage them, check out these helpful resources:
INVASIVE PLANT MANAGEMENT IN CAMPBELL RIVER
Noxious weeds and invasive plants commonly found in the Campbell River area include:
- all four knotweeds (Bohemian, Giant, Himalayan and Japanese knotweed)
- giant hogweed
- yellow flag iris
- scotch broom
Check out this brochure of the top 10 invasive plants from Greenways Land Trust. Greenways Land Trust, in partnership with the City, has been leading the charge to control noxious weeds and invasive plants in Campbell River. This includes work through education, work parties and events. Greenways Land Trust also works with other community groups to address invasive species, including the Guardian Watchman Program and local Rotary clubs.
Campbell River BroomBusters has also been working tirelessly to reduce coverage of invasive broom in our parks and along road corridors.
Looking for tips on proper removal and disposal of invasive plants? Check out this factsheet from the Invasive Species Council of BC.