Invasive Species Management

The Township of King is committed to protecting its rich natural heritage by actively managing and mitigating the spread of invasive species. Invasive plants and pests can pose serious threats to local ecosystems, biodiversity, and public health.

Through community engagement, mapping tools, and best management practices, King Township empowers residents to take action. Whether it's reporting sightings via EDDMapS, participating in local surveys, or learning safe disposal methods, everyone has a role to play in preserving our environment.

Explore how you can help safeguard King’s landscapes and contribute to a healthier, more resilient community.

Click below to view the most common invasive species in King Township!

Invasive Species in King Township

What Are Invasive Plants?

Invasive plants are non-native species that spread rapidly and aggressively, often out-competing native vegetation. They can disrupt natural habitats, reduce biodiversity, and negatively impact agriculture, forestry, and recreational areas.

Common Terms:

Prohibited: It is illegal to import, possess, deposit, release, transport, breed, buy, sell, lease or trade prohibited invasive species in Ontario.

Restricted: It is illegal to import, breed, buy, sell, lease, or trade restricted invasive species in Ontario.

Learn more about prohibited and restricted invasive species HERE.

Noxious Weed:

In general, a species designated as a noxious weed under the Weed Control Act is one that:

Is difficult to manage on agricultural land once established and will reduce the yield and quality of the crop being grown
Negatively affects the health and well-being of livestock
Poses a risk to the health and well-being of agricultural workers

Learn more about Noxious Weeds HERE.

How You Can Help!

Disposal of Terrestrial Invasive Plant Species

Tips for disposing of terrestrial invasive plant species:

Ensure you wear proper protective equipment.
Know what you are removing and ensure you are implementing best management practices for removal.
Do not put in the compost, these items are garbage.
All invasive plant materials should be placed in black plastic bags. Sealed tightly and left in direct sunlight for at least one week.
Pulled plants which have flowered are still able to produce seeds, so plant pieces should be removed from the site and sent to the landfill to avoid further spread.

Report Invasive Species

The Invading Species Hotline serves as a valuable resource for the public, especially during times of increased public concern. Members of the public are able to call and speak with an invasive species expert to report a sighting or to inquire about invasive species information. Contact the Invading Species Hotline 1-800-563-7711 or utilize EDDMapS. EDDMapS is a fast and easy way to map invasive species without any technical expertise. Users simply take a picture with their mobile device and report from where they are standing. Visit www.EDDMapS.org to register and report your sighting.

Residents can help map the distribution of invasive species present throughout the municipality. Sightings of terrestrial invasive plants growing within King Township can be mapped using King Mapping Software. By reporting sightings staff can identify what plants are present within King, the location of the species, control methods and the severity of the infestation. Mapping the distribution of invasive species will help Township staff monitor and mitigate the spread of invasive plants throughout the municipality. Mapping the distribution of terrestrial invasive plant species can be conducted on all property types including municipal lands, conservation lands, natural areas, green spaces and residential properties.

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