The Invaders: How to Recognize and Report Invasive Species


The Invaders

How to Recognize and Report Invasive Species

© Alberta Agriculture and Forestry


What is an Invasive Species?

An invasive species is an organism that has been introduced into an area beyond its original geographic range and has the potential to cause severe consequences to the economic, ecological and social sustainability of an ecosystem.


What are Invasive Species a Problem?

Invasive species are a major problem as they ultimately transform the character, condition, form or nature of ecosystems over a substantial area. In North America, 20–30% of introduced species inflict serious environmental damage, reducing the population of endangered native plants by 42% and causing $138,000,000,000 in deficits per year. Invasive plant species have been difficult to control and nearly impossible to eradicate since their introduction into our ecosystems.


What are Some Examples of Invasive Species?
Prohibited




Pale Yellow Iris
(Iris pseudacorus)
Himalayan Balsam
(Impatiens glandulifera)
Purple Loosestrife
(Lythrum salicaria)
Nodding Thistle
(Carduus nutans)




Yellow Starthistle
(Centaurea solstitialis)
Japanese knotweed
(Fallopia x bohemica)
Tamarisks
(Tamarix spp.)
Knapweeds
(Centaurea spp.)

For a complete list of prohibited noxious weeds, check out this poster by Alberta Agriculture & Forestry.
Noxious




Oxeye Daisy
(Leucanthemum vulgare)
Yellow Clematis
(Clematis tangutica)
Creeping Bellflower
(Campanula rapunculoides)
Canada Thistle
(Cirsium arvense)




Baby’s Breath
(Gypsophilia paniculata)
Toadflax
(Linaria vulgaris)
Black Henbane
(Hyoscyamus niger)
Field Scabious
(Knautia arvensis)

For a complete list of prohibited noxious weeds, check out this poster by Alberta Agriculture & Forestry. 


How to Identify and Report Invasive Species

Check out these resources to assist you in scouting, monitoring and reporting invasive species in Alberta.

Alberta Invasive Plant Identification Guide
EDDMaps Alberta
Calgary 311 Online
Alberta Pest Surveillance System (310-APSS (2777))


How Can We Prevent the Spread of Invasive Species?

  • Select native species for ecological benefits such as non-invasive growth habit, hardiness, reclamation properties and wildlife habitat quality to decrease maintenance costs, reduce carbon emissions and increase aesthetic value of your property.
     
  • Do not introduce invasive species into natural areas and avoid incorporating these species near woodland boundaries. It is important to never underestimate a species’ virulence against native species or assume that the alien species will not become invasive.
     
  • Report invasive species immediately to your local bylaw authority.
     
  • Use integrated pest management strategies to remove invasive species such as preventative, cultural, mechanical, biological and chemical techniques.
     
  • Volunteer with your local environmental conservation parks agency to help remove invasive species in natural areas.


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When in doubt, contact a professional to ensure your garden can be enjoyed for years into the future. Contact us for a horticulture consultation today!


Prairie West Landscapes
3541A 78 Ave SE
Calgary, AB T2C 1J7
(403) 252-6330
info@pwlscapes.com   






Location: Calgary, AB, Canada

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