Invasive species can have economic, human health, and environmental impacts. It can be expensive for local governments to remove and control fast-spreading invasive species. Some, like giant hogweed with its toxic sap, can injure people and pets, and local plants can be crowded out by fast-growing invasives that compete for space in the eco-system. Many people may not even realize they have invasive plants in their yard, such as traditional favourites like periwinkle or English Ivy.
You can help win the fight against invasive species through careful plant choices and removal of existing invasives in your yard. Visit the links to learn which plants are considered invasive in our region, how to identify them, and alternatives to consider for your garden. To control the spread of non-native plant species, make sure you dispose of them in your garbage bin rather than putting them in the compost.
Additional Resources
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Invasive Species Fact Sheets
To learn about best practices for invasive species management
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Invasive Species Council of British Columbia
This organization is committed to reducing the impact of invasive species in our province. Fact sheets, plant identification guides and other useful resources can be found on their website. -
Invasive Species Council of Metro Vancouver
One of the seventeen regional invasive species committees in the province, the ISCMV offers education and outreach resources on their website, information on workshops and events, and prevention tips such as the Knot on My Property guide to tackling the fast-growing invasive knotweed plant. -
PlantWise
Explore which plants are considered invasive in our region and understand the harm they can bring to our ecosystems and economies.
