Thanks to an investment from the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources, the Invasive Species Centre is supporting 116 new projects across Ontario led by community groups, Indigenous organizations, municipalities, and conservation authorities on critical invasive species issues through the Invasive Species Action Fund. Invasive species are plants, animals, insects, and […]
Environment
Volunteers Needed to Help Communities in Bloom Clean Greenway Aug. 12
Communities in Bloom is meeting at the Landsdowne trail entrance (adjacent to Mettawas Station) Tuesday, August 12, 2025 for an hour starting at 6:00 pm and taking to the Chrysler Greenway trail to pickup any loose garbage. Gloves and bags will be given out to all helpers.
Dude, Where’s my Dock? – Help Prevent the Spread of Invasive Phragmites
Have you noticed a tall, dense grass growing along the highways and shorelines in Ontario? What you may be seeing is invasive Phragmites – and once you see it, you can’t unsee it. The Ontario Phragmites Action (OPA) program is raising awareness about this invasive plant through a new billboard […]
Biodiversity Begins At Home: Stop The Spread Of Invasive Species
Invasive species are regarded as the second greatest threat to global biodiversity. On May 22nd, International Day for Biological Diversity, the Invasive Species Centre is urging Canadians to take steps to prevent the spread of invasive species. Invasive species are organisms that are introduced to ecosystems outside of their native […]
Protect Oak Trees: No Pruning until November
Ontario residents are urged to refrain from pruning oak trees during the no-pruning season, which runs from now until November. Pruning or otherwise damaging oak trees during this time makes them especially vulnerable to oak wilt disease. Oak wilt is an invasive vascular disease caused by a fungus (Bretziella fagacearum) that […]
‘Great Cleanup Challenge’ Starts March 31
The Great Cleanup Challenge Keep your little corner of Essex County clean with Essex County Library and Essex Region Conservation. Starting Monday, March 31 you can: 1. Pick up a Great Cleanup Challenge kit at your local Essex County Library branch. 2. Each kit includes a tracking sheet, garbage bags […]
ISC Launches Project to Protect Ash Species in Ontario
The Invasive Species Centre is excited to announce the launch of a new, three-year initiative in partnership with the National Tree Seed Centre, Forest Gene Conservation Association, and the Ontario Forestry Research Institute with funding and support from the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks. This initiative will raise […]
Invasive Species Centre Recognizes Leaders Protecting Land and Water
The Invasive Species Centre (ISC) is pleased to celebrate excellence in invasive species prevention and management through the 4th Annual Invasive Species Awards Ceremony. The ceremony took place during the ISC’s annual Forum – one of Canada’s largest invasive species events. The 6th Annual Invasive Species Forum is being held […]
How to Report Invasive Grass Carp: Information Session in Windsor
Five invasive Grass Carp were removed from Canadian waters in 2024! Three were collected in the Ottawa River, in Quebec. One was confirmed by photograph in Rondeau Bay, but the specimen was destroyed before it could be obtained by Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO). One was collected by DFO crews […]
Grants Available For Tree Planting Including Seedlings And Large Trees
The Essex Region Conservation Authority is offering grants ranging from 75% to 100% for projects that help protect our environment. Interested landowners should contact ERCA soon to learn about these grant programs and plan for spring projects. As well, landowners interested in planting trees or creating prairie habitat on their […]
Invasive Phragmites Control Fund Opens 2025 Call For Proposals
The Ontario Phragmites Action (OPA) program is pleased to announce the Invasive Phragmites Control Fund (IPCF) call for proposals. IPCF was made possible by an investment from the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources. These funds will support local on-the-ground action on Phragmites and amplify and expand control activities as part […]
Spread Joy, Not Pests: Invasive Species Could Be Hiding In Holiday Decor
As the holiday season approaches, the Invasive Species Centre is urging the public to check their holiday decorations for invasive species. Christmas trees, wreaths, and other natural decor can have invasive insects, eggs, and plants that pose a threat to local ecosystems and the economy. Christmas trees should be inspected […]