What do the Zebra mussel, yellow starthistle and Brazilian elodea have in common? They are all invasive species that do not occur in British Columbia but have the potential to threaten the Okanagan’s environment and have a big impact financially.
June 10 to 16 is B.C.’s second 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.
This year’s theme is “working together to stop the spread.”
“Invasive species know no boundaries; they span landscapes, land ownerships and jurisdictions. Because of this, it’s imperative that we work cooperatively to address the issue. We all need to take responsibility,” said Lisa Scott, a Summerland biologist who is also the coordinator of the Okanagan and Similkameen Invasive Species Society.
Invasive species are plants, animals, aquatic life and micro-organisms that out-compete native species when introduced outside of their natural environment. They can come from across the country or across the globe.
These unwelcome invaders create an imbalance in nature by competing for the same resources that native species need to survive.
The economic costs associated with invasive species in Canada are measured in the tens of billions of dollars, and those costs are escalating.
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 non-profit society OASISS are on the front lines of eradicating, slowing the spread, and addressing the enormous collateral damage of invasive species.
Of particular concern in the Okanagan Valley is the potential arrival of zebra and quagga mussels.
These freshwater invertebrates rapidly colonize hard surfaces and can clog water-intake structures, impact recreation and devastate local fisheries.
At present, the closest population is in California but some biologists believe it is only a matter of time before they arrive here.
In the Okanagan, the effects of their invasion would be felt at the commercial activity level, throughout the tourism sector and at the ecological level. Direct costs and lost revenues are estimated to be $42 million each year.
Yellow starthistle occurs in Washington. While it is not yet known to occur in British Columbia, it is close to the borders.
Prevention of harmful new invasions 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 invasive aquatic species is a particularly hot topic this year and it’s the focus of an Okanagan-wide campaign this summer. During Invasive Species Week, events are being held throughout the Okanagan-Similkameen.
Take the time to become more familiar with these unwanted invaders and learn what you can do to make a difference. Go to www.oasiss.ca for a complete list of events.
