Local organizations are getting a financial boost to fight invasive species that threaten forests, waterways, and ecosystems across central Ontario.
Through the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources’ Invasive Species Action Fund, the Invasive Species Centre is supporting 116 projects provincewide, including work at Alderville Black Oak Savanna, Kawartha Conservation, and Trent University.
These projects will focus on identifying, removing, and managing invasive plants, insects, and other species that put pressure on native habitats. Invasive species are considered the second-biggest threat to biodiversity worldwide and cost Ontario an estimated $3.6 billion each year in damage to forestry, fisheries, agriculture, and infrastructure.
“Invasive species have real impacts on our lakes, forests, and communities,” said Colin Cassin, Executive Director of the Invasive Species Centre. “By investing in these local initiatives, we’re helping to build long-term resilience across the landscape—safeguarding natural ecosystems and all that depend on them.”
Since 2021, the Invasive Species Action Fund has supported more than 370 projects across Ontario. This latest round of funding will support work over the next three years.
More details about the fund and its projects are available at invasivespeciescentre.ca/grants.
