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. In the case of goldfish and the Erickson Stormwater pond, these fish must be caught, euthanized using an approved fish anesthetic, and then disposed of safely to remove the invasive species within the limited time available in the granted permits.

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.

Featured
What's New
Upcoming Events
May 03, 2025 Colourful Run
May 31 - Jun 06, 2025 Go By Bike
May 31 - Jun 01, 2025 LOOP Day
Jun 12, 2025 River City Ukes
Jun 14, 2025 Kite Flying Day
Jun 25, 2025 Singing For Fun
Jul 03, 2025 Art In The Square
Jul 07 - Aug 25, 2025 Line Dancing In The Square
Jul 08, 2025 Yoga In The Park
Jul 15, 2025 Yoga In The Park
Jul 15 - 29, 2025 Salsa Lessons In The Square
Jul 17, 2025 Art In The Square
Jul 29, 2025 Yoga In The Park
Jul 31, 2025 Art In The Square
Aug 07, 2025 Art In The Square
Aug 12, 2025 Yoga In The Park
Aug 19, 2025 Yoga In The Park