Policies
Policies set out guidelines and priorities for invasive species management in Ontario. They include:
- Ontario's Biodiversity Strategy
Ontario's Biodiversity Strategy (2005) recommends actions to fight invasive species. The strategy was developed and is being carried out by government and non-government groups for the benefit of all Ontarians. - Canada Ontario Agreement Respecting the Great Lakes Basin Ecosystem
Ontario shares waters with other provinces and with the United States. The province relies on the federal government to help deal with aquatic invasive species.
The Ontario Biodiversity Strategy (2005) provides direction to deal with invasive species. The strategy was developed and is being implemented by government and non-government groups for the benefit of all Ontarians.
The Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources worked with the federal government and other provinces and territories to develop An Invasive Alien Species Strategy for Canada. The strategy addresses the threat of aquatic and terrestrial invasive species. Ontario also participates in a number of bi-national working groups including the Great Lakes Panel on Aquatic Nuisance Species.
Regulations
The Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources develops and enforces regulations to help fight invasive species, including the Fish & Wildlife Conservation Act and the Ontario Fishery Regulations (under federal Fisheries Act). For example, a regulation under the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Act bans the importing into Ontario parts of dead animals of the deer family that have a high risk of transmitting chronic wasting disease.
The ministry also worked with the federal government to strengthen legislation and develop effective means of treating ballast water. You can learn more by reading the Ballast Water Control and Management Regulations.
