By: Valerie Diamond

Over the past ten years invasive species have increased in British Columbia. The harmful effects of Invasive species such as the rock pigeon and baby's breath harms ecological niches and dries soil causing ground erosion, and further flooding. Invasive species also push away native plants and the native wildlife that feed on them.

Gail Wallin, the Executive Director of Invasive Species Council of British Columbia (ISCBC) shares the basics of prevention and mitigation of Invasive plant and animal species with Valley Community Television's Valerie Diamond.

The Thompson-Nicola Regional District (TNRD) covers 44,449 square kilometers of the Southern Interior of British Columbia. The TNRD website states that the region has 44 invasive plants listed with three being a top priority removal.

While there are more than 44 invasive plants in the TNRD, Wallih says that those not mentioned on the list are most likely less harmful than those listed. The TNRD Invasive plant list excludes invasive animal species, such as feral pigs, European fire ants, rats and invasive fish to lakes, although Wallin spoke to some of the issues with respect to invasive animal species too.  

She says that there are proper protocols to remove and restrict reproduction and movement of invasive animals, so taking action must be left to the professionals. The first step is to report invasive plants of animals to the proper authorities within your region. You can use an app to identify the species.

Prevention of invasive species entering an area is the best way to deal with the problem. For example, to clear a lake of invasive plants or animals costs thousands of dollars, so it is highly recommended to take the preventative measures of cleaning, draining, and drying any and all equipment and clothing before and after traveling to and from different lakes, forests, and even backyards and gardens.

Sixty percent of invasive species were purposely introduced to British Columbia, and introducing invasive species is still practiced today by people buying invasive species for decoration, medicine and food harvesting, however, these practices are not recommended by invasive species professionals.

ISCBC provides a website service that shows viewers native species alternatives that contribute to the wellness of the environment, rather than causing more damage. Wallin says it is possible to harvest invasive plants without causing spread however the bigger picture must be considered.

For more information regarding invasive species watch, Valerie Diamond’s full interview at https://www.facebook.com/100066875797152/videos/402673392081831/

Go to the TNRD website at https://www.tnrd.ca/services/invasive-plant-management/regional-invasive-plants/

https://bcinvasives.ca/

And even visit the ISCBC website for education programs, training courses and detailed information from the professionals here, https://bcinvasives.ca/