Local organizations are among those benefiting from a new round of provincial funding aimed at protecting Ontario’s natural spaces from invasive species.
The Invasive Species Centre has announced support for 112 community-led projects through the Invasive Species Action Fund, backed by a $2-million investment from Ontario’s Ministry of Natural Resources.
Among the organizations receiving funding are the Ganaraska Region Conservation Authority and the Municipality of Port Hope, both of which will take part in local efforts to address invasive species concerns.
The funding program supports municipalities, conservation authorities, Indigenous communities, non-profit organizations and community groups working to prevent, monitor and manage invasive species.
According to the Invasive Species Centre, invasive species are the second-largest threat to biodiversity worldwide and cost Ontario an estimated $3.6 billion annually through impacts on forestry, fisheries, agriculture, infrastructure, tourism and recreation.
Minister of Natural Resources Mike Harris said the funding is intended to help communities prevent invasive species from spreading and protect Ontario’s forests and waterways.
The announcement highlighted a project led by Nipissing First Nation, where crews will remove invasive Japanese knotweed and restore affected areas using native grasses, shrubs and trees. The project will also provide environmental stewardship opportunities for local youth and summer students.
Since 2021, the Invasive Species Centre says it has supported 485 projects through the Invasive Species Action Fund.
Officials say the latest round of funding will help communities build local expertise, strengthen partnerships and improve the long-term management of invasive species across Ontario.
More information on the program is available through the Invasive Species Centre.
(Written by: Joseph Goden)
