Province prohibiting and restricting 10 new invasive species from establishing or spreading
TORONTO – Ontario is prohibiting and restricting 10 new non-native species under the Invasive Species Act to help prevent and reduce their spread to protect Ontario’s economy and biodiversity. “Invasive species damage our ecosystems, impact our ability to enjoy outdoor activities and harm our economy by threatening the forestry and agriculture sectors,” said Graydon Smith, Minister of Natural Resources and Forestry. “That’s why we are taking action to restrict these invasive species to protect Ontario’s economy and ecosystems.” Examples of new species that will now be prohibited include certain fish, aquatic plants and invertebrates. Restrictions will also be placed on groups of new aquatic and terrestrial plants. The full list of the new prohibited and restricted invasive species can be found here. In addition, the government has initiated consultation to renew the Ontario Invasives Species Strategic Plan to address the evolving and increasing threat of invasive species in Ontario.