Invasive Species
Invasive species are plants or animals that did not originate in a region, but grow rapidly and spread aggressively. They compete for resources with other species, and can degrade habitat and biodiversity.
Invasive species are the second greatest threat to biodiversity in the world, after habitat loss. In British Columbia, it is estimated that 25% of our endangered species are negatively impacted by invasive species. Without efforts to prevent their spread, invasive plants will generally increase their area an average of 14% annually. This exponential rate means that populations double every five years. The CVRD’s strategy for invasive plant management consists of a bylaw, invasive plant inventory, removal of key species, and a public awareness campaign.
Common invasive species in the Cowichan Region include Scotch broom, English ivy, Himalayan blackberry, morning glory, and others. Most invasive species can be disposed of at any CVRD Recycling Centre or through the curbside organics collection program. However, four invasive species of concern in the CVRD require special attention, and must be immediately removed due to safety concerns. These include poison hemlock, giant hogweed, knotweed, and spurge-laurel.
How Do Invasive Species Spread?
Human activities are the primary way invasive species are introduced to new environments. By moving plants, animals, and other organisms beyond their natural geographic boundaries, people can unintentionally or deliberately transport species to places where they do not naturally occur.
Sometimes this happens on purpose such as bringing in ornamental plants for gardens. Other times, it occurs accidentally, like when ships release ballast water containing tiny organisms into new waters.
While only a small number of introduced species are able to survive and establish themselves, those that do can spread quickly and have significant impacts on local ecosystems, economies, and infrastructure.
Invasive Plants and Local Bylaw Requirements
To protect the health of our communities and local ecosystems, it’s important to be aware of the high-risk noxious invasive plants found in our region. Some species such as giant hogweed, poison hemlock, daphne (spurge laurel), and knotweed are highly toxic and can cause serious harm to people, pets, and the environment.
At present, giant hogweed and poison hemlock are regulated under a local bylaw that requires their immediate removal due to the significant risks they pose. This initial approach allows the region to test and refine removal processes, with the potential to expand regulations to additional invasive species in the future.
Be aware of toxic plants that require immediate removal according to the Noxious Weed Control Bylaw:
Be aware of other priority plants that should be disposed of with care:
While these species are not required to be removed by the CVRD Noxious Weed Control Bylaw, they are still harmful and should be dealt with carefully. It is encouraged that these also be removed.
Other Invasive Species Info
Preventing and managing invasive species is an important part of protecting our local ecosystems. While this page provides an overview of our area’s bylaws and highlights specific plants, there are many additional invasive species and resources available to help you learn more and take action. We encourage you to explore the work of the Invasive Species Council of Metro Vancouver (ISCMV), which offers a wide range of resources, including species identification, removal guidance, educational materials, and opportunities to get involved. For more detailed information, please visit their pages below:
How Can You Help?
- Control invasive plants and replace them with a non-invasive alternative. Check out growgreenguide.ca
- For Homeowners Managing Invasive Species on Your Property
- Download the ‘Report Invasives BC app to identify and report invasive species
- Do not place invasive plants in your backyard composter as the temperature will not become hot enough to destroy the seeds and roots
- Invasive Species Council of BC has gathered simple, accessible ideas to help anyone take action against invasive species. Whether you’re starting a community project, getting creative, or heading outside to lend a hand, there’s a way for everyone to get involved. They also have a page dedicated to plant alternatives: “Grow Me Instead”
- Don’t Let it Loose for pet and aquarium owners
- Buy Local, Burn Local moving firewood can spread invasive species and diseases that can severely impact our environment and economy
- Clean, Drain, Dry for boaters and kayakers
- Play, Clean, Go for hikers, campers and back-country explorers
