This summer, the Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters (O.F.A.H.), in partnership with the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources, Wetland Habitat Fund, and Ducks Unlimited Canada, are working with landowners throughout eastern Ontario to control the spread of purple loosestrife.
Purple loosestrife is an invasive wetland plant native to Eurasia, that was introduced to North America in the early 1800s. Widely considered to be one of Canada’s most invasive plants, purple loosestrife forms dense stands which are unsuitable as cover, food or nesting sites for a range of wetland species such as waterfowl, bitterns and muskrats.
The program involves the release of loosestrife-eating Galerucella beetles, which have been successfully used to control purple loosestrife at more than 200 sites in Ontario. Galerucella beetle packages will be distributed to community groups, local governments and conservation organizations for volunteers to release in 80 loosestrife-infested wetlands across eastern Ontario.
Galerucella beetles were initially brought to Canada and the United States in 1992 to control purple loosestrife. Regulatory agencies from both countries approved their release after stringent research established that the beetles’ are harmless to native species and the environment. The beetles are now being used successfully in nine Canadian provinces and 33 U.S. states, and this natural control has become recognized as a viable alternative to more traditional methods of control.
“This program makes a significant contribution to reducing the extent and spread of purple loosestrife in eastern Ontario,” said O.F.A.H. Executive Director Mike Reader. “Invasive species such as purple loosestrife are one of the greatest threats to the health of Ontario’s wetlands.”
The beetle releases will be conducted in cooperation with community based volunteers from angling and hunting clubs, naturalist groups, trappers, and academic institutions. Volunteer responsibilities include the identification of suitable release sites, the actual release, and monitoring the success of beetle populations.
“The participation and support of the community is critical to the success of this program,” said Mark Stabb, Program Manager, Wetland Habitat Fund. “This hands-on program helps to promote environmental awareness of the impacts of purple loosestrife and provide opportunities for individuals to become caretakers of eastern Ontario wetland environments.”
Although numerous organizations have already signed on to assist with the program, there are still opportunities for other interested groups from eastern Ontario to participate in the program. Volunteers can register their interest by contacting the O.F.A.H. Invading Species Hotline at 1-800-563-7711.
| Contact: | Dawn Hutchinson Invasive Species Public Awareness Liaison (705) 748-6324 |