Greetings from the Invasive Species Centre |
|
Hello and welcome to the summer edition of the Invasive Species Centre newsletter 'The Spread.'
Thanks to our many partners, we are having an exciting summer at the Invasive Species Centre: exploring new ways to tell the invasive species story through social media, returning to hosting in-person workshops and events, removing the aquatic invasive weed European water chestnut in the Niagara region, and many other exciting initiatives helping to protect the land and waters.
We are seeing a big reduction this summer in infestations of the forest pest spongy moth (Lymantria dispar dispar, formerly known as European gypsy moth), increased interest in jumping worms and their potential impacts, and lots of volunteers interested in new tools to detect invasives.
Many local boots-on-the-ground groups play a big role in preventing and managing invasives, so we are delighted to be able to support them through the Invasive Species Centre's Invasive Species Microgrant Program and with partners through the Green Shovels Invasive Phragmites Control Fund. I encourage you to view our website to learn more.
We are always looking for new ideas and partners and welcome your suggestions.
I hope you get a chance to enjoy the rest of the summer and the beauty of the outdoors.
Best wishes,
|
|
Sarah Rang
Executive Director, Invasive Species Centre
|
|
Invasive Species Microgrants For Ontario |
|
Applications for the 2022-23 Invasive Species Microgrants are now open!
Are you part of a group or organization that aims to help protect your community’s land and water from invasive species? Walk the walk on invasive species by submitting your project ideas by Friday, August 19 for a chance to be awarded a $1,000 microgrant!
For full details on eligibility and application requirements, visit the program's webpage by clicking on the link below.
The Invasive Species Centre would like to thank the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry for its support for the 2022-23 Microgrants and the Invasive Phragmites Control Fund.
|
|
Update on the Economic Impacts of Invasive Species |
|
Across Canada, invasive species pose economic threats to lands, waters and the activities they support. Economic impacts of invasive species include reductions in property values, crop yields, recreation and tourism, forestry, ecosystem services and increased management costs, and more.
With funding provided by Environment and Climate Change Canada, the Invasive Species Centre collaborated with the Invasive Alien Species National Committee to develop and disseminate a survey for municipalities across Canada to find out more about their invasive species expenditures and priorities.
We heard from 231 municipalities across Canada who reported their 2020 economic data.
Based on the survey results, Canada’s estimated annual municipal expenditures on invasive species is $247.9 million. It's important to note that this estimate does not include expenditures by other levels of government, parks, Indigenous communities, or conservation authorities, and is likely an underestimate of the true cost. More than 60% of respondent municipalities indicated that funding was not sufficient to adequately manage invasive species, indicating that considerably more could be spent on invasive species management at the municipal level in Canada.
Prevention and early detection are the most cost-effective and efficient ways to combat invasive species and reduce the economic, environmental and societal impacts of invasive species.
You can find out more about the economic impacts of invasive species below.
|
|
|
|
European Water Chestnut Rapid Response Program |
|
European water chestnut (Trapas natans) is an aggressive invasive aquatic plant that has been detected for the first time in the Welland River in the Niagara region.
The Invasive Species Centre is leading a Rapid Response Program to remove European water chestnut from the Welland River with support from the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry, Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters and the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority.
Recently, the Rapid Response Program was in the news! Recreational paddlers came out to ‘Paddle with a Purpose’ in the Welland River. Participants joined the Invasive Species Centre and the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority at one of two paddling tours to learn how to identify and report European water chestnut observations.
You can learn more about the European Water Chestnut Rapid Response Program at the Invasive Species Centre's webinar series on August 31. Check out the link below to register.
|
|
The Invasive Species Awareness and Monitoring Program for Lakes Education Ontario (IsampleON) is an initiative that engages volunteers in monitoring efforts to help prevent the spread of invasive species.
In 2021, the Federation of Ontario Cottagers’ Associations (FOCA) and the Invasive Species Centre launched the IsampleON program to help FOCA member associations undertake targeted outreach, education, and sampling for invasive mussels and invasive spiny waterflea in lakes on the Canadian shield.
Aquatic invasive species are recognized as one of the pressures on our Great Lakes basin waterways, and a leading global cause of biodiversity loss. The project is intended to help prevent aquatic invasive species, such as invasive mussels, from becoming established in Ontario’s inland lakes. Lakes selected for this monitoring program have calcium concentrations that could support a freshwater mussel population (at least 12 mg/L). Calcium is a nutrient that is required by all living organisms.
In 2021, 25 lakes were selected for the IsampleON program, with a total of 50 volunteers representing those lakes. The volunteers collected water samples, which were sent back to the Invasive Species Centre for lab analysis for positive or negative evidence of invasive mussel veligers or spiny waterflea. The volunteers also posted and shared information about invasive species prevention in their own communities by posting signs and sharing information in their local newsletters and on social media.
For 2022, 29 lakes have been selected, and sampling is in progress. Thank you to all the volunteers for their hard work and dedication! We know early detection is essential to protect our lakes and rivers from the negative impacts aquatic invaders have on these key ecosystems.
|
|
Know How To Identify this Invasive Plant |
|
Giant hogweed is an invasive plant in the carrot family that can resemble native North American species such as Queen Anne’s lace.
Giant hogweed has spread across Canada, with populations recorded in Atlantic Canada, Ontario, Q uébec, and British Columbia. It often invades along roadsides, in ditches, on riverbanks, fields, and open woodlands. Recently, it has been reported spreading in parts of Ottawa and Toronto.
This large plant can grow up to 5.5 metres in height and produces a clear watery sap that contains toxins that can cause severe dermatitis (inflammation of the skin). Ultraviolet radiation activates compounds in the sap, resulting in severe burns when exposed to the sun.
Here are some identifying features of this plant to remember:
Height - can reach up to 5.5 metres
Stems - bristly with purple splotches
Flowers - tiny, white and grow in large clusters
Leaves - spiked and jagged
Sap - clear and will burn skin on contact
It is recommended to avoid handling this plant and to report any sightings to EDDMapS or the Invading Species Hotline at 1-800-563-7711. Photos will help experts to confirm identification but it is important not to touch the plant. |
|
Hijacking Cupid’s Arrow: How to Use Reproductive Biology to Manage Invasive Insects |
|
New research "Remnants of horizontal transfers of Wolbachia genes in a Wolbachia-free woodwasp" demonstrates how knowledge of the reproductive biology of invasive insects has implications for the design of new and better tools for their monitoring and management.
Wolbachia is a parasitic bacteria of mainly arthropod and nematode species. Upon infection, it can change the reproductive biology of its unsuspecting hosts for its own gain. Wolbachia also transfers some of its genes to the genomes of its hosts.
Genes from Wolbachia have been found in the sequenced genomes of the woodwasp Sirex noctilio. This invasive pest causes economic loss in pine forests across the Southern Hemisphere.
The authors specifically investigated South African populations of this woodwasp and concluded that it is a potential host for Wolbachia. Due to its ability to cause reproductive changes and previous research on its impact on mosquito populations, the authors concluded that Wolbachia could help regulate S. noctilio populations.
This research was discussed by author Dr. Joséphine Queffelec on July 25 in the Invasive Species Centre's webinar "Hijacking Cupid’s Arrow: How to Use Reproductive Biology to Manage Invasive Insects." Click here to watch!
|
|
 |
Invasive Jumping Worms in the Garden
Jumping worms pose a serious threat to forest ecosystems through their modification of the soil. They can change the nutrient composition of the soil, making it richer in nitrogen, which modifies soil bacterial and fungal communities. These changes can affect which plants are able to grow and survive, potentially leading to cascading effects on wildlife.
Unfortunately for gardeners, a jumping worm’s primary vector of spread is through horticulture such as mulch, compost, nursery stocks, or potting mixes.
If you find jumping worms in your garden, don’t panic! There are several steps you can take to prevent the spread of this invasive worm and protect forest ecosystems while still enjoying your time outdoors.
|
|
|
|
Starry Stonewort in the Great Lakes Basin
In the 1970s, a European freighter made its way across the Atlantic Ocean into the St. Lawrence River. When the ship released its ballast water, a Eurasian native macroalgae – starry stonewort, was released along with it.
Quickly reproducing, the invading species flourished throughout the waters of the Great Lakes Basin by anchoring itself into waterway sediment. Having the unique ability to deposit its white bulbils (seed-like structures) into shallow sediment allows starry stonewort to survive winters and spread with ease.
There are several things boaters can do to prevent the spread of this invasive species.
|
|
|
|
Updates on Invasive Aquatic Species Monitoring and Regulation |
|
The Great Lakes Commission's Blue Accounting Website tracks efforts under the Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement, including programs and policies that stop species introduction, and detect, and control harmful invasive species across the region. One of the most recent additions to the Blue Accounting site is a metric to track regional consistency of regulations for aquatic invasive species. This new tool allows you to compare species, jurisdictions, and regulated activities.
The Great Lakes Commission also launched the Great Lakes Detector of Invasive Aquatic Species in Trade. This approach developed by the Great Lakes Commission uses advanced technology to search the internet for sites where aquatic invasive species can be purchased and shipped to the Great Lakes region. |
|
We have been busy adding new species profiles to our website!
Check out our newest profile on white pine blister rust.
Since its introduction, white pine blister rust has devasted eastern white pines in the East and endangered whitebark and timber pine species in the West. While it is difficult to control in large natural stands, white pine blister rust is more easily managed in urban environments where site factors can reduce the survival and success of spores.
|
|
New Guide for Invasive Species on the Pacific Coast |
|
The newly revised and expanded Third Edition of Whelks to Whales: Coastal Marine Life of the Pacific Northwest has expanded with a new chapter with an illustrated guide of 30 species of marine introduced and invasive species. This includes new species unique to British Columbia.
The illustrated guide contains information on more than 400 marine species, with chapter 13 focusing on introduced and invasive marine species.
|
|
Grass Carp Video Wins a SO GOOD Award |
|
Grass Carp is one of the four species of invasive Asian carps that are threatening to invade the Great Lakes. They consume up to 40% of their body weight a day in aquatic vegetation, which is a serious threat to wetlands and the species that depend on them for resources. Their presence in nearby waterbodies makes them a threat to the Great Lakes.
That’s why the Invasive Species Centre worked with Design de Plume to create a Grass Carp information video to increase public awareness on how to identify and report this invasive fish. Recently, the video was given a Social Good (So Good) Design Award under the Sustainability, Ecology and Climate category!
The So Good Design Awards is a biannual, international design competition that celebrates design’s undeniable power to incite meaningful action and make positive change.
A huge thanks to Design de Plume for all their work helping us make this video. Raising awareness can help keep the Great Lakes healthy and free of invasive species.
|
|
Catch the Invasive Species Centre on Fishbrain |
|
You can now find the Invasive Species Centre on the Fishbrain app and website. Fishbrain is the #1 fishing app in the world, and the most used in North America, with a community of more than 14 million anglers. Invasive Species Centre’s page on Fishbrain will provide regular updates regarding Asian carps and other aquatic invasive species, and will share identification and reporting resources.
Asian carps are invasive fishes of concern because of the damage they could cause to Canada’s ecological, recreational and economic environments if they established in the Great Lakes. Early detection is key to prevention and protecting the Great Lakes! Having a presence on Fishbrain will allow the Invasive Species Centre to increase awareness of Asian carps and other aquatic invasive species with anglers.
Fishbrain has a variety of features, including allowing anglers to log their catches, view local catches on the map feature, identify what species they have caught, and tagging species and bodies of water for people to see on their feeds. The Invasive Species Centre will be able to tag high-risk bodies of water as well as species that would experience negative impacts as a result of Asian carps.
The app is free to download for use by the public - check out the Invasive Species Centre page today to learn more about invasive species in Canadian waters!
|
|
In Ontario , new watercraft regulations came into effect under the Ontario Invasive Species Act on January 1, 2022. These updates mean it is now mandatory to take reasonable measures to ensure the removal of any aquatic plants, animals, or algae from watercraft when transporting it over land.
This summer, the Invasive Species Centre joined the #CleanDrainDry social media campaign to help spread the word. This campaign aims to help inform and empower all of us to stop the spread of aquatic invasive species. |
|
Let’s all do our part this summer in protecting our waters from aquatic invasives so that they can be enjoyed for many generations to come!
|
|
Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement Turned 50 This Year |
|
The Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement is an agreement signed by Canada and the United States to identify shared priorities and coordinate actions to protect and restore the waters of the Great Lakes.
This year, the Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement turns 50! Follow the link below to learn more about the history of this agreement, including recent updates on aquatic invasive species and ballast water.
|
|
Save the Date for the
2023 Invasive Species Forum
|
|
Get your calendars out - the next Invasive Species Forum will be held virtually from February 7 to 9, 2023. This annual event brings attention to invasive species issues, research, and advances in prevention and management occurring across Canada, and in neighbouring U.S. States.
Visit our website to stay up to date and see recordings from previous forums.
|
|
Invasive Species Centre Webinars |
|
The Invasive Species Centre continues to collaborate with experts in the field of invasive species management, prevention, and monitoring to discuss different topics each month.
On September 6, please join us for 'Use of multi-isotope geolocation to track insects' to learn more about recent innovations in insect monitoring with Felipe Dargent, University of Ottawa. More information to come!
|
|
Calling anyone interested in terrestrial and aquatic invasive species impacting Sault Ste. Marie and the surrounding area! On Wednesday, August 24, the Invasive Species Centre, in collaboration with Batchewana First Nation, Evolugen and Parks Canada are holding a come-and-go public outreach event By the Rapids, where you can come speak with our experts on topics related to aquatic invasive species, terrestrial invasive species, and traditional ecological knowledge. Each booth will be stocked with lots of fun educational tools, including species displays, and take-home resources. In the event of inclement weather, an alternative rain date is set for Thursday, August 25. |
|
A Look Back on Past Events |
|
The 22nd International Conference on Aquatic Invasive Species |
The International Conference on Aquatic Invasive Species (ICAIS) is the most comprehensive international forum to address new and emerging issues related to aquatic invasive species in freshwater, marine and estuarine environments.
The 2022 Conference took place April 19-22 with the theme of Global Climate Change Amplifies Aquatic Invasive Species Impacts.
Returning to Europe for the first time in 15 years, the conference took place in Oostende, Belgium and had in attendance, both in-person and virtually, more than 380 registrants representing 41 countries. New this year, ICAIS welcomed 11 researchers whose participation was made possible through funding from the first ICAIS Diversity Bursary Program.
The conference hosted 188 presentations including 7 keynote presentations by renowned international scientists from different disciplines, who each provided their perspectives on climate change within their respective areas of expertise. This included an additional special section " Research at the interface of climate change, aquatic invasive species and diseases” and the LIFE RIPARIAS workshop.
This year's theme of Global Climate Change allowed the conference to demonstrate the interconnectedness of global invasive species issues and opened up conversations on the latest science and policy, including updates to the EU Aquatic Invasive Species regulatory process. It also sought to inspire cooperation on aquatic invasive species research and management projects on a global scale.
Planning for the ICAIS 2024 is already underway, so please look out for the invitation for expression of interest to host the next venue.
|
|
The Invasive Species Centre is continuing to lead invasive species outreach in the community with several educational events taking place over the summer. Here are a few examples of what we have been up to: |
|
The annual Sault Ste. Marie Science Festival occurred on June 14-19. Community members joined in for a week of fun science activities including a science carnival for families. Elementary school students also enjoyed participating in virtual activities hosted by subject experts during ARTIE (The Advanced Research Technology Innovation Expo) on June 16. |
|
|
The Great Lakes Forestry Centre Welcomed Students from the Algoma District School Board |
|
On July 15, the Invasive Species Centre, with the Great Lakes Forestry Centre, welcomed 24 First Nations and Métis Grade 8 students from the Algoma District School Board Summer Learning Program.
Through the Summer Learning Program, students explore cultural experiences and pathways for local careers and further education; the Invasive Species Centre was happy to share a STEAM experience in our labs with:
- A primer on invasive species
- A chance to view invasive insect samples and meet our Entomology Technician and Entomology Summer Student
- An introduction to our Communications Officer summer student who just graduated from an Algoma District School Board high school and is now creating content for the ISC social media accounts
- An opportunity to meet our Aquatic Lab Technicians, process their very own sample in our zooplankton lab, and check it under the microscope to see if a lake has invasive mussel veligers
|
|
Sault Ste. Marie Green Initiatives Invasive Species Summer Workshop |
|
On August 3, the Invasive Species Centre hosted an in-person invasive species workshop at the Art Gallery of Algoma. Attendees were taught the identification and management of both aquatic and terrestrial invasive species, with an emphasis on prevalent species in Sault Ste. Marie and the surrounding area.
The event welcomed gardeners, anglers and boaters, community stewardship groups, teachers, volunteers, and all individuals with an interest in preventing invasive species from entering Sault Ste. Marie and the surrounding area. The workshop was also featured on the news!
The day ended with a tour of the Biodiversity Garden at the Sault Ste. Marie Public Library. Guests had the chance to see what a native garden can look like and learn about the associated benefits that come with having one.
|
|
Queen's University Environmental DNA Workshop |
|
From July 25 - 29 Queens University held an Environmental DNA Workshop at their biological station on Opinicon Campus.
Environmental DNA (eDNA) is becoming an increasingly important tool in invasive species management as it is cost-effective, reliable, and non-invasive. This method uses DNA which organisms leave behind in the environment to detect their presence without the need for capture or even direct visual observation.
The workshop was open to professional biologists in a number of sectors and included lectures, field and lab demonstrations, and hands-on training in analysis and interpretation of data.
|
|
Other Invasive Species Centre News |
|
Welcome to our New Team Members |
The Invasive Species Centre would like to welcome Madeline McCarthy in the role of Invasive Species Summer Technician, Nicole Szabo in the role of Communications and Event Management Intern, Katrina Pascall in the role of Summer Communications Officer, and Katie Church in the role of European Water Chestnut Rapid Response Program Team Lead. We would also like to thank Alison Grant who joined us this summer in the role of Invasive Species Summer Technician.
Welcome to the ISC team!
|
|
Follow us on social media. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
