May has once again been declared BC Invasive Species Action Month by the provincial government.  Invasive species can disrupt habitat, displace native species and negatively impact British Columbia’s environment, people or economy.

You may wonder how you can take action. There are many ways to help prevent the introduction and spread of harmful invasive species in our communities and make a difference.

Invasive plants, can establish monocultures and reduce biodiversity, increase soil erosion, alter soil chemistry and adversely affect commercial crops. Some may pose a health risk to animals and people, such as Giant hogweed (Heracleum mantegazzianum).

If you have your own garden, you can learn to be Plant Wise and choose more native plants. They have evolved to live in our climate and can save time and money by reducing water usage (watering restrictions in effect May 1-October 15), fertilisers, and herbicides. They are also the best food source to attract wildlife.

What if don’t have your own garden?  Come join us at our Weedbusters work parties! Weedbusters is one of the BLPA’s biggest activities. Since 2004, community volunteers have rolled up their sleeves and helped to remove invasive plants in large areas throughout Burnaby Lake Regional Park. Our main targets are Himalayan blackberry (Rubus armeniacus), Himalayan balsam or Purple Policemen’s Helmet (Impatiens glandulifera), Scotch broom (Cytisus scoparius), English ivy (Hedera helix), and English holly (Ilex aquifolium). Once these invasive species become established in an area, they can spread rapidly, and seriously disrupt the ecosystem of the park by crowding out native species which in turn may reduce native wildlife.

Members of the public can report sightings of invasive plant species anywhere in BC by using the Report-A-Weed or Report Invasives BC smartphone apps, by calling 1 888-WEEDSBC (1 888 933-3722), or by using the online reporting tool available.

Join us this month to take action against invasive species! We will have our Weedbusters work party on Sunday, May 27th, from 1 to 4 pm. You can find our full Weedbusters schedule here or check out our event calendar.

We’ll be posting ideas throughout the month of May on how you can take action against Invasive species.