TORONTO, June 16, 2026 – The Ontario government announced on June 15 that it is investing $2 million to support 112 community projects across the province to help prevent the spread of invasive species. The province said the funding will support public education, early detection, monitoring, rapid response and on-the-ground management to protect natural spaces, lakes, rivers, forests, farmland and community green spaces.
Invasive species prevention does not only happen in forests, wetlands or conservation areas. Backyards, community gardens, park trails, lakeside docks, campsites and aquariums can all become entry points for the spread of non-native species. Residents who enjoy gardening, fishing, camping, boating or taking pets outdoors may unintentionally carry seeds, insect eggs, soil or aquatic plants through everyday activities.
Many Chinese seniors and newcomer families enjoy growing vegetables, flowers and fruit trees in backyards or community gardens. Because they may be unfamiliar with Ontario’s native plants and pests, unusually fast-growing plants, insects attached to leaves, or invasive species that look like ordinary weeds can easily be overlooked. Throwing cut plants into green spaces, near rivers or on nearby vacant land may also allow the problem to spread.
Outdoor recreation also requires attention. After fishing, boating or camping, shoe soles, tires, fishing gear, boat surfaces and pet fur may carry soil, seeds or small aquatic organisms. When cleaning aquariums, dumping aquatic plants, small fish or wastewater into outdoor water bodies may also introduce non-native species into the natural environment. Preventing invasive species does not always require professional equipment. In many cases, it begins with cleaning gear, not discarding plants carelessly and not moving unknown organisms.
The provincial funding will support local organizations, conservation authorities and community projects in education, monitoring and removal work, but this does not mean every community will immediately have dedicated staff to handle the issue. Priority invasive species vary by region, and residents should not spray chemicals, dig up or move suspicious plants or insects on their own if they do not know what they are. Incorrect handling may cause further spread and may also affect other local plants and animals.
Residents who notice unusual plants, insects or aquatic organisms in backyards, gardens or outdoor activity areas can first take photos, record the location, and then check official information from Ontario, local municipalities or conservation authorities. Those unfamiliar with English names can ask garden centres, community organizations, neighbours or English-speaking family members for help confirming the information. Gardening, fishing and camping are part of summer life for many families, and understanding invasive species prevention is also a way to protect the community green spaces and waterfront environments they use regularly.（LJI by Yuanyuan）
