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English ivy and Lamium, two of the estimated 150+ non-native invasive plants of concern in BC, are known to spread rapidly and cause damage in natural rainforests and other ecosystems. FBC helped advance early work in BC’s fight against invasive plants.

Photo credit: Ph2212 | iStock

Shared Success Story

BC-Wide Action on Invasive Plants

Shared Success Story

BC-Wide Action on Invasive Plants

The key to beginning the journey was bringing together people on a common problem

Invasive plants are a problem in BC. They disrupt natural ecosystems, encroach on agricultural lands and harm local economies.

The introduction and spread of invasive plants can follow multiple paths, such as through international, national and regional travel and trade; horticulture and gardening sales; transportation and utility corridors; seed mixtures; recreation; and the passage of livestock, wildlife, pets and people.

In 2001 the Fraser Basin Council brought together government, business and community interests for a scientific grounding on the issues and to find new ways to collaborate.

This led to an Invasive Plant Strategy for BC and creation of an Invasive Plant Council or IPC (which later became the Invasive Species Council of BC in 2012).

Key steps that led to action:

  • Over 300 organizations and individuals signed a memorandum of support under the Invasive Plants Strategy for BC to formally join the effort to control invasive plants
  • In its first five years, the IPC established and supported local invasive plant committees across BC
  • IPC brought together a large circle of participants to learn more about invasive plants and coordinate efforts, including technical specialists working for government and industry, weed committee coordinators, forest professionals, biologists, ranchers, horticulturists, recreation enthusiasts, gardeners and other concerned individuals
  • IPC created resources and organized training tailored to those in multiple sectors and jurisdictions — from local government decision-makers to forestry workers, landscapers and home gardeners, and youth groups
  • The tradition of an annual forum began, drawing hundreds of people from across BC and beyond to learn about invasive species and expand their networks

The work is today carried on at the national, provincial, regional and local levels.