Register for the free workshop on March 13 and take a survey to share your feedback
Township of King, Ont. (February 23, 2026) — King Township 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 harm to local ecosystems and public health and are one of Canada’s greatest threats to the survival of native biodiversity.
Invasive species often outcompete native species for access to resources, which reduces biodiversity and creates spaces that are less resilient to environmental challenges. They also compromise human recreational activities and health, infrastructure, aesthetic values, and are costly and labour-intensive to manage.
Invasive Species Awareness Week
In recognition of Invasive Species Awareness Week, from February 23 to March 1, King Township will be sharing resources and practical tips to increase awareness about the impact of invasive species and empower residents to safeguard local landscapes. Follow @KingTownship on X, Facebook and Instagram to learn more and become a local champion in invasive species management.
Themes to watch throughout the week
- February 23: Learning About Invasive Species
- February 24: Pathways of Spread
- February 25: Invasive Species Research
- February 26: Prevent the Spread
- February 27: Reporting
- February 28: Species Spotlight
- March 1: Species Spotlight (continued)
Top five invasive species in King Township
- European buckthorn
- Manitoba maple
- Non-native honeysuckle
- Garlic mustard
- Dog-strangling vine
Tips for the disposal of 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.
King Climate Resilient Agriculture Workshop: Invasive Species Management for Farms & Rural Landowners
Register for the free workshop taking place at Schomberg Community Hall on Friday, Mar. 13 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Learn from experts at the Invasive Species Centre, York Region, Toronto and Region Conservation Authority, and The Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority who will share insights on common invasive species, effective management strategies, and practical tips and resources for managing invasive species on rural and agricultural lands. The session will also introduce the new King Township Invasive Species Strategy and highlight local actions and opportunities for landowners. Free lunch will be provided while you network and learn from a variety of vendors.
Provide your insight, complete the Invasive Species Strategy Feedback Survey
King Township is developing its first comprehensive Invasive Species Strategy and invites residents to share their feedback on invasive species.
Your input will help shape the strategy, improve local understanding of invasive species, and ensure community values are reflected in King Township’s management approach.
Learn more on the project webpage at speaking.king.ca.
Complete the survey by April 30
If you believe you have sighted an invasive species in the area, call the Invading Species Hotline at 1-800-563-7711 to speak with an expert. Residents can also visit EDDMapS to map invasive species without any technical expertise. Learn more and report sightings at EDDMapS.org.
For more information on invasive species in King Township, visit king.ca/InvasiveSpeciesManagement.
To receive updates on King Township news, follow the official corporate social media channels on X and Facebook and Instagram, subscribe to the King eNewsletter or visit king.ca.
Media Contact(s)
Township of King
Carling Fee, Communications Specialist
Township of King | Phone: 905-833-4575 | Email: media@king.ca