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Events Span Okanagan and Similkameen valleys during Invasive Species Week

In the Okanagan and Similkameen region, the impacts of invasive species have become an increasing concern for many organizations.

 

June 9 – 15 is B.C.’s third annual Invasive Species Week. This week-long event provides an opportunity for people all around the province to participate in local events and learn more about how to prevent the spread of invasive species.

In the Okanagan and Similkameen region, the impacts of invasive species have become an increasing concern for many organizations. The programs and stewardship actions lead by the Okanagan and Similkameen Invasive Species Society (OASISS) are on the front lines of preventing the arrival of new species, slowing their spread, and addressing the enormous collateral damage of invasive species.

“Protecting our region from the threat of invasive species is a top priority,” states local biologist Lisa Scott, who is also the Coordinator of OASISS. “Our society has focused on invasive plants for nearly two decades, but the scope of our efforts is expanding every year, to now include Zebra and Quagga Mussel, European Fire Ant, American Bullfrog and Eastern Gray Squirrel, just to name a few. We need the public’s engagement to address these biological invaders.”

Prevention of harmful new invasions is the first priority, as it is the most cost-effective way to deal with the problem. Once species are established, the task becomes far more complex and costly. The issue of aquatic species and keeping invasive mussels out of B.C. continues to be hot topic this year and it’s the focus of an Okanagan-wide campaign this summer.

Locally, residents can participate in the week’s activities with this event on Friday, June 13:

1– 5 p.m. In Keremeos at Grower’s Supply, 813-5th Street. Bring your questions and samples to summer student, Matt. He will be on hand with information on escaped ornamental plants and other troublesome weeds in the region.