For many outdoor enthusiasts, spring means it’s time to get back to our favourite activities. As you’re gearing up for another season, it is important to remain vigilant for invasive species.
Invasive species are plants, animals, and microorganisms that have been introduced by human action outside their native range. Their introduction threatens the environment, economy, or society, including human health.
“Whether you’re trekking through backcountry trails, casting a line in your favourite fishing spot, or exploring new waters on your boat, you can unintentionally help invasive species spread to new environments,” Invading Species Awareness Program Administrator Emma Rupprecht said. “Seeds from invasive plants can hitch a ride on muddy boats and tires, aquatic plants and invertebrates can cling to watercraft and fishing equipment, and invasive forest pests can burrow into firewood.”
As outdoor enthusiasts, it is our responsibility to prevent the spread of invasive species and conserve the areas we love. Remove mud and debris from boots and outdoor equipment between trips, clean, drain, and dry your watercraft before moving to a new waterbody, and burn firewood locally. These simple actions have a lasting impact on our ecosystems.
If you see an invasive species on your adventures this season, report your sightings to the Invading Species Awareness Program. Take clear pictures, note your location, and call the Invading Species Hotline at 1-800-563-7711 or at: www.EDDMapS.org
Together we can preserve the places we cherish for generations to come.
Originally published in the Walleye 2026 issue of Ontario Out of Doors magazine
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