The Ontario government is fighting harmful ecological, social and economic effects of invasive species by increased spending in management and prevention.
Ross Romano, MPP for Sault Ste. Marie, announced the province is spending $850,000 in the Invasive Species Centre to support ongoing research into prevention, early detection, control and eradication of invasive species across the province.
"Investing in the Invasive Species Centre is an investment in prevention, which is the most effective approach for managing invasive species and vital to the preservation of Ontario's natural resources in the long-term," said Romano.
Invasive species can cause significant harm to biodiversity and can affect recreational activities and tourism. Once invasive species become established, it is extremely difficult to remove them, potentially causing long-lasting damage to the environment.
Since 2011, the Invasive Species Centre, based in Sault Ste. Marie has collaborated with government, academic, industry and Indigenous communities and organizations to play a significant role in research, response planning, management and habitat restoration.
"Our province is home to an abundance of natural beauty and resources, and our government is committed to protecting the environment for future generations," said John Yakabuski, Minister of Natural Resources and Forestry. "This means that we have to act now to prevent the spread of invasive species that can harm the great outdoors we love and enjoy."
"Thanks to this provincial investment, the Invasive Species Centre will work with partners to develop new measures to prevent and manage invasive species," said Bob Lambe, Chair of the Board of Directors of the Invasive Species Centre. "Invasive species are among the largest challenges to conservation, and we are committed to working together in the fight against this serious threat."
In 2020-2021, Ontario is spending over $2 million to support ongoing research, monitoring, and management of invasive species across the province.
Ontario is the only jurisdiction in Canada that has standalone invasive species legislation. The Invasive Species Act provides legislative tools to prohibit and restrict certain invasive species and carriers that facilitate the movement of invasive species
