Invasive Species Links

The following links provide useful resources to learn more about invasive species.

INVASIVE SPECIES - GENERAL

• Invasive Species in Canada – This is the Government of Canada’s portal on invasive species. It contains information on invasive species in Canada, children’s activities, and links to federal agencies involved in the management of invasive species in Canada.
• Global Invasive Species Database – This searchable database contains information on the ecology, distribution, impacts and management of invasive species, and references for invasive species around the world. The website is managed by the Invasive Species Specialist Group (ISSG) of the Species Survival Commission of the IUCN-World Conservation Union.
• Invading Species Awareness Program, Report a Sighting Online - Visit this page to report your sightings of invasive species online. On this website you can also find out how you can help monitor and detect invasive species in Ontario.
• Invading Species Awareness Program, Resource Materials and Information – Visit this page to order or download resources like brochures, fact sheets, posters, signs, videos, watch cards, and learning material for grade four students.
• Ontario Invasive Plant Council (OPIC) – The OPIC facilitates a coordinated and effective response to the threat of invasive plants by providing leadership, expertise and a forum to educate, motivate and empower organizations and citizens. The OIPC is composed of conservation authorities, academic institutions, aboriginal organizations, stewardship networks, private consultants, industry and environmental NGOs as well as all levels of government.
  
   

AQUATIC INVASIVE SPECIES

• Centre of Expertise for Aquatic Risk Assessment (CEARA) – The CEARA is part of Fisheries and Oceans Canada. The website provides an overview of the CEARA, its mandate and objectives. You can also read the Asian Carp Status Report, the Risk Assessment for Asian Carps in Canada, and the Risk Assessment for Northern Snakehead in Canada on this website.
• The Great Canadian Baitfish Survey – Anglers are encouraged to take this short on-line survey by Fisheries and Oceans Canada. The purpose of the survey is to get a better understanding of what, where and how Canadians use baitfish for angling.
• The Great Canadian Water Garden Survey – Water garden enthusiasts are encouraged to take this short on-line survey by Fisheries and Oceans Canada. The purpose of the survey is to get a better understanding of the plants and animals used by Canadians in their water gardens and ponds.
• National Code on Introductions and Transfers of Aquatic Organisms – Developed by federal, provincial and territorial governments, the Code was adopted in September 2003. It provides a way to assess proposals to move aquatic organisms from one water body to another.  It also requires a consistent process for assessing the potential impacts of intentional introductions and transfers of aquatic organisms.
• Stop Aquatic Hitchhikers – This interactive website for recreational water users provides information about aquatic invasive “hitchhikers” on watercraft and gear. The website is maintained by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service and the U.S. Coast Guard.
• Aquatic Nuisance Species (ANS) Task Force - ANS and Aquatic Recreation (PDF) – Recreational water users can play a major role in preventing the spread of aquatic invasive species. Practical steps are outlined for boaters, anglers, scuba divers, waterfowl hunters, float-plane operators, bait harvesters, and personal water craft operators that will help reduce the risk of spreading aquatic invasive species.

TERRESTRIAL INVASIVE SPECIES

• Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) – Invasive Species – This website contains information on the management and control of terrestrial invasive plants and insect pests in Canada. It also contains information on policies and action plans to help stop the spread of invasive species in Canada.
• Forest Health – When Invasive Species Threaten Your Woodlot – Read this fact sheet to learn about what you should do if you suspect an invasive species in your woodlot.
• Forest Health – A Landowner’s Guide for Woodlots Threatened by Emerald Ash Borer – Read this fact sheet to learn about what you should do if your woodlot is threatened by emerald ash borer.
• The Landowner’s Guide to Controlling Invasive Woodland Plants – Read this guide to learn how to control and mange invasive woodland plants on your property.
• Quick Reference Guide to Invasive Plant Species – This field guide was produced by Toronto Region Conservation and Credit Valley Conservation with assistance from the Ontario Invasive Plant Council. It is an excellent tool to learn how to identify invasive plant species that are a problem in southern Ontario.