T’was the month of December
At the ISC
Not an insect was stirring
Not even a bee.
Strategic plans were hung
in the office with care
With hopes of an invasive-free Canada for all to share.
With the Comms team creating
And Programs gauging risk
They didn’t even notice
Something was amiss.
When down in the foyer
There arose such a clatter
We sprang from our desks
To see what was the matter.
Then out to the parking lot, well what a sight
EDRR volunteers, ready to fight!
‘Away with invasives’ was the mighty call
Prevention and management by one and by all!
On Phragmites, on Asian carps, on Emerald Ash pests -
The ISC works with partners, we don’t ever rest!
Then off we all flew with a skip and hop
Our team is the best, they are at the top!
We wish you a holiday that is merry and bright
Thank you for support in this brave, worthy fight!
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Asian Longhorned Beetle and the Maple Syrup Industry
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Did you know that the 3-cm Asian longhorned beetle (ALB) poses severe threats to Canada’s multi-million dollar maple syrup industry? ALB is not established in Canada, but it has been detected twice in Southern Ontario (2003 & 2013) and is under an aggressive eradication and surveillance program with no detections in recent years.
1
When larvae emerge, they feed under the bark, and eventually tunnel deeper into the tree. The tunnels created by the larvae hinder the tree’s ability to transport water and nutrients and eventually kill it.
1
The implications of a widespread ALB invasion would be devastating to Canada’s maple syrup industry. The Canadian maple syrup industry accounts for 80% of the world’s authentic maple syrup products, of which 91% is contributed by the province of Quebec.
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In 2015, exports of these products valued at $360-million.
2
To highlight the relationship between ALB and Canada’s maple syrup industry, the Invasive Species Centre (ISC) was invited to the Maple Syrup Exhibit Reveal at the Canadian Heritage Bushplane Museum, hosted by Rural Agri-Innovation Network (RAIN) and the Maple Syrup Produces of Ontario and Canada. The ISC shared resources and knowledge on potential impacts to the industry from invasive species.
1
Invasive Species Centre. Asian Longhorned Beetle.
Forest Invasives
. Retrieved from
Forest Invasives
.
2
Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada. Statistical Overview of the Canadian Maple Industry – 2015.
Government of Canada
. Retrieved from
Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada
.
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ISC Business Development & Communications Manager Deb Sparks providing remarks at the Bushplane Museum Maple Syrup Exhibit Reveal in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario.
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ISC Policy & Program Intern Mackenzie DiGasparro representing the Forest Invasives program at the Bushplane Museum Maple Syrup Exhibit Reveal.
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New DFO App helps protect Ontario waterways from Invasive Species
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The Baitfish Primer, a key guide from Fisheries and Oceans Canada that allows recreational fishers to identify legal and illegal live bait, is now available as a mobile app. The new app allows fish harvesters to take the guide with them anywhere to easily identify legal baitfishes for use in Ontario’s waters.
Ensuring live bait is neither an invasive species that could damage the ecosystem, such as Asian carps, nor an endangered species that must be returned unharmed to the water, is a critical element in protecting the Great Lakes and all Ontario waterways.
The new mobile app has a unique identification tool that can help anyone identify the baitfishes of Ontario. The Baitfish Primer App also allows users to directly report any aquatic invasive species they find to the Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters’ Invading Species Hotline and the online and mobile tool, EDDMapS Ontario – information that is then shared with DFO and the Province of Ontario. Early detection is critical to Canada’s strategy to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species. By reporting sightings, users are assisting the front-line efforts to protect Canada’s ecosystems from invaders.
Additionally, this app will help fish harvesters and cottagers:
- Understand the federal and Ontario legislation and regulations pertinent to the use of baitfishes;
- Recognize the importance of baitfish habitat;
- Understand the potential impacts of improper baitfish use; and
- Understand how to minimize impacts from aquatic invasive species and how to protect species at risk.
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ICAIS – Call for Abstracts
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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. ICAIS provides an international platform for the presentation of aquatic invasive species research. The Technical Program Committee invites the submission of 300-word abstracts for oral and poster presentations addressing invasive species issues in freshwater and marine environments, including a student oral and poster competition. ICAIS 2019 will include a special pre-conference session that will intersect the aquatic and terrestrial spheres. Presentations will feature areas of mutual interest from terrestrial invasive species research, policy, and management initiatives. Submission deadline is January 14th, 2019.
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The Importance of Binational Collaboration in the Great Lakes Region to Address Asian Carps
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The binational Great Lakes ecosystem is currently under threat from four high risk Asian carp species: grass, bighead, silver and black carps. The prevention of these invasive fishes is a priority for both the Canadian and American governments. Collaboration between the two federal governments is key in addressing these species. This webinar provided background on Great Lakes governance and authorities for fishery management. Information specific to Asian carp governance and, in particular, how the Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee functions was explained in detail. Examples of binational actions highlighted successes and include topics such as risk assessment, response, prevention, and enforcement. The webinar ended with a discussion on the importance of binational collaboration and challenges to be addressed. This webinar was presented by Becky Cudmore from Fisheries and Oceans Canada and Dr. Marc Gaden from the Great Lakes Fishery Commission.
See the full webinar
here
.
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Sudbury students learn about local invasive species concerns and careers
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The Early Detection and Rapid Response (EDRR) Ontario Network hosted a free, one-day Youth Summit on Invasive Species Research & Resource Management in Sudbury on November 20th. This event was geared toward students and young professionals in the Sudbury and surrounding regions interested in learning more about emerging invasive species issues, fields of research, and career opportunities. The event hosted eight speakers with various professional backgrounds and over forty students from several different post-secondary schools in the Sudbury and North Bay area. Speakers included representatives from the Invasive Species Centre, Ontario Invasive Plant Council, City of Greater Sudbury, Invading Species Awareness Program, Junction Creek, and Trent University.
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The Invasive Species Centre hosts 2
nd
Ontario Invasive Species Forum
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Presenters at the Invasive Species Forum held in Sudbury, Ontario on November 21.
Left to right:
Andrew Healy, Ministry of Transportation Ontario; Tracey Cooke, ISC Executive Director; Jeremy Downe, Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry.
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The Invasive Species Centre hosted the 2
nd
Ontario Invasive Species Forum in Sudbury on November 21, 2018, attracting 70 participants from across the province.
The forum was an opportunity for stakeholders and organizations involved in invasive species work in Ontario to gather and explore the collective work they do while fostering a sense of community.
Key partners, both provincially and federally, spoke on their respective organizational highlights in invasive species work. Speakers included the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry, the Ministry of Transportation Ontario, the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, the Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters’ Invading Species Awareness Program, Ducks Unlimited Canada, the Nature Conservancy of Canada, the Ontario Invasive Plant Council, the Canadian Council on Invasive Species, Fisheries and Oceans Canada, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency, and Natural Resources Canada, Canadian Forest Service.
Participants attended concurrent sessions of interest including: Landowner and Community-Grounded Action, Initiatives by Indigenous Peoples on Invasive Species, and Invasives Beyond Ontario Borders. The afternoon talks addressed community-oriented efforts to combat invasive species, leading initiatives and programs by Indigenous communities, and notable developments in neighbouring provinces and states on invasive species programming, policy, and projects.
A highlight of the day was a traditional opening blessing delivered by Elder Maxine Shawongonbe from Wikwemikong Unceeded Territory. The forum also welcomed a graphic recording artist to illustrate forum proceedings on poster boards instead of in written minutes.
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Graphical conference proceedings from the Ontario Partner Check-in
during the Invasive Species Forum.
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Invasive Species Social a Success
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Following the Invasive Species Forum on November 21
st
, the Invasive Species Centre hosted an Invasive Species Social at Science North in Sudbury, Ontario. This event recognized the Ontario Trillium Foundation for their funding in support of the Early Detection and Rapid Response Network and included an Asian Carp Canada public information session. The event hosted booths from partners including the Ontario Invasive Plant Council, the Invading Species Awareness Program,
Junction Creek Stewardship Committee, and Fisheries and Oceans Canada. The Invasive Species Centre also showcased their Asian Carp Canada, Early Detection and Rapid Response Network, and the Forest Invasives projects. At the Asian carps information session, Julia Colm from Fisheries and Oceans Canada gave a presentation on early detection and response efforts to prevent Asian carps from establishing in the Great Lakes. Attendees were invited to participate in a question and answer period and follow-up with Asian carp experts at the booths. The threat of Asian carps to the Great Lakes is high, and this event gave community members the opportunity to learn more about the impacts these species would have if established. The educational displays also provided an opportunity for the public to learn ID features and reporting information. We are thankful to our partners who participated and helped make this event a huge success!
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Attendees learning about invasive species at the Invasive Species Social in Sudbury, Ontario.
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Hands on the ground workshops and training made possible by Ontario Trillium Foundation Grow Grant
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The recognition event at the Invasive Species Social on November 2 welcomed over 60 people including Sudbury Deputy Mayor Al Sizer who was present to congratulate the ISC and hear more about how expanding the Early Detection and Rapid Response (EDRR) Network Ontario is helping bridge the communication gap and increase community level capacity for mitigating invasive species impacts.
The EDRR Network is a project delivered by the ISC and the Ontario Invasive Plant Council and is the recipient of an OTF Grow grant. The Grow Investment Stream supports projects that are based on evidence and deliver results contributing to a longer-term goal. In the context of these requirements, the EDRR Network trains and equips volunteers with the skills and resources needed to better detect, report, and ultimately reduce invasive species in Ontario, one community at a time
.
This network has been active for four years educating and informing the public about invasive species.
“Our Early Detection and Rapid Response Network helps move invasive species knowledge and action outside of expert circles by arming volunteers with awareness, knowledge, and the tools to undertake on-the-ground projects in the community. The Invasive Species Centre thanks the Ontario Trillium Foundation and our many partners for supporting the development of the EDRR Network Ontario, allowing us to prevent and reduce the spread of invasive species,” said Tracey Cooke, executive director of the Invasive Species Centre.
For more information about the network and how to participate, visit
edrrontario.ca
.
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Representatives at the Ontario Trillium Foundation recognition event.
Left to right:
Lauren Bell, Invasive Species Centre Community Outreach & Education Coordinator; Tracey Cooke, ISC Executive Director; Al Sizer, Deputy Mayor of Sudbury; Gabby Nichols, Ontario Invasive Plant Council EDRR Coordinator.
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3,700 bug experts invade Vancouver, BC
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This year, the Entomology Society of Canada and America held a joint North American meeting in Vancouver, bringing many “bug” experts from the entomology world under one roof. The Invasive Species Centre was well represented with executive director Tracey Cooke participating in a panel discussion on invasive species and presenting ongoing ISC projects. ISC insect diagnostician David Dutkiewicz also attended the meeting, where he learned about emerging techniques and resources in entomology which will enhance the insect diagnostics program at the ISC. Symposia attended included topics such as genomic approaches to biosurveillance, ecology of Cerambycids and Buprestids, management of bark and ambrosia beetle with semiochemicals, and shifts in geographical ranges and outbreak dynamics of forest insect pests. This meeting provided ISC representatives with new information on identification techniques that will enhance the diagnostics of extension and forest health programs.
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ISC insect diagnostician David Dutkiewicz on the nature boardwalk near Capilano suspension bridge in Vancouver, B.C.
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42
nd
Annual Ontario Forest Health Review
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The 42
nd
annual Ontario forest health review was hosted this year by Natural Resources Canada at the Great Lakes Forestry Centre, with the Invasive Species Centre providing support. The review began with a comprehensive and up-to-date overview of Ontario’s forests. Ontario MNRF researcher, Dr. Sharon Reed presented findings on the discovery of a new potential forest pest, Beech Leaf Disease, that was first detected in Ohio and later discovered in several sites throughout Southern Ontario. Other speakers at the event included ISC Executive Director Tracey Cooke, Mike Francis from the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry, Simeon Wright from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, and Dr. Chris MacQuarrie of Natural Resources Canada. Natural Resources Canada research scientist Dr. Barry Cooke rounded off the forest health review with a captivating discussion tackling the issues of adapting forest health monitoring in the context of the changing climate. The ISC is looking forward to next year’s forest health monitoring season and providing diagnostic services to the OMNRF.
Watch the recorded sessions
here
.
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ISC welcomes new team members
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This quarter, the Invasive Species Centre welcomed three new employees! Erika Luoma is joining ISC as the Communications and Events Coordinator with 20 years’ experience in the public sector, bringing expertise in communications and event planning to her new role. The Invasive Species Centre is also excited to welcome Mackenzie DiGasparro and Leah Hodgson, the two NOHFC interns for this year! Mackenzie joins ISC as the Policy & Program intern with a background in ecology, evolution, and behaviour and a passion for entomology and forest health. Leah will be filling the role of Communications & Business Development intern, with a background in both science communication and biology.
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Invasive Species in the News
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A
recent study
released by the University of Toronto has shown Toronto ravines to be on the
verge of ecological collapse
. Biodiversity is threatened by invading species such as Norway maple and garlic mustard - in turn threatening the recreational, economic, and ecological value of the area. This study reproduces a biodiversity assessment conducted in 1977 and is a unique collaboration between scientists and concerned citizens.
This report demonstrates the vital role that citizen scientists play in widespread assessments and proposing policy and behaviour changes. It is both a model to follow for other communities and a stepping stone towards a bigger potential projects. Davies et al. recommend following the example of
Natural Areas Conservancy
, an institution founded in New York that brings together a variety of groups with the common goal of protecting nearby forests.
You can help protect Canada's natural spaces by knowing how to identify,
report
, and prevent the spread of invasive species. Learn more
here
.
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