Provincial funding allocated to fight invasive species

OFAH FILE: 842
July 11, 2013

Provincial funding allocated to fight invasive species
OFAH to develop mobile app

The Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters (OFAH) is applauding the Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) for continuing the fight to stop the spread of invasive species, and offering financial support to programs and research projects in efforts to combat the issue and protect the province’s natural resources. Minister of Natural Resources, David Orazietti, announced yesterday that in 2013-2014, the MNR will provide $1.16 million to the Invasive Species Centre in Sault Ste Marie, a partnership-based, non-profit organization that facilitates efforts with stakeholders in the prevention, detection and management of invasive forest, plant and aquatic species.

“The spread of invasive species is of dire concern to the OFAH, which is why we’re pleased to see the strong partnerships that have formed to help protect Ontario’s lakes, rivers, streams and forests,” said OFAH Executive Director Angelo Lombardo. “We commend the Government of Ontario for their commitment to protecting Ontario’s environment and economy from the impacts of invasive species, which are estimated to be $1.4 trillion globally.”

The Invasive Species Centre has provided funding to the OFAH to develop an invasive species Android and iPhone app that will help identify and track invasive species across Ontario. The mobile app will give Ontarians an important tool to help battle invasive species. The data gathered will also be available to the public and researchers in a digital “data warehouse.”

To report a sighting of an invasive species, or request information materials, call the Invading Species Hotline at 1-800-563-7711 or visit www.invadingspecies.com.

The OFAH is the largest charitable, non-profit conservation organization in Ontario, with 100,000 members, subscribers and supporters, and 710 member clubs. As the voice of anglers and hunters, the OFAH works on a broad range of fish and wildlife conservation programs that enhance our natural resources for present and future generations.

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