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B.C. is expanding its support for programs to detect and remove invasive species.
Boost for invasive species programs
Published 3:24 PST, Thu January 28, 2021
Last Updated: 2:13 PDT, Wed May 12, 2021
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The province is investing another $12 million to assist with the detection and removal of invasive species.
”In British Columbia, we're working to protect our natural environment on a number of fronts," said Premier John Horgan. "This funding will not only help to control damaging species not native to the province, it will also create jobs for local communities."
The provincial economic recovery plan, StrongerBC, provides employment and economic opportunities to support a wide range of projects throughout the province. The Ministry of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development is responsible for economic recovery programs worth more than $100 million. The new invasive species funding is one component of that overall recovery strategy.
"Invasive plants and animals can disrupt habitat, displace native species and negatively impact our environment and the economy," said Forests Minister Katrine Conroy. "This new investment will provide training and skill development opportunities to support invasive species detection and control efforts by the Invasive Species Council of BC and other partners throughout the province."
Of the new funds, $8 million will go to the Invasive Species Council of BC to provide expanded training and outreach opportunities, and to collaborate with land managers, local governments, Indigenous communities and others to detect and remove invasive species throughout B.C. over the next 15 months. Another $3 million will be provided to established invasive species management partnerships with Indigenous groups, regional invasive species organizations, local governments and others, delivered through the ministry's ongoing funding program, and the remaining $1 million to support planning and expanded invasive species control efforts by various government ministries.
"Developing new jobs that will help protect our environment from invasive species will greatly benefit Indigenous and rural communities throughout the province,” said David Bennett, chair of the Invasive Species Council of BC.
Invasive species are plants, animals (including insects) and fungi not native to B.C. or are present outside of their natural distribution area. They can spread rapidly, outcompete or feed on native species, dominate natural and managed areas, and alter ecosystems. Some invasive species are toxic to people, pets, livestock and wildlife.
The B.C. government manages high-priority invasive species (through the work of staff and contractors) and provides ongoing financial assistance to support the work of invasive species organizations to contain and control invasive species throughout the province.
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