Invasive Species Centre Canadian Institute of Forestry Teachers’ Tour August 5, 2015

Invasive Species Plants, animals, fish, insects, fungi or microorganisms that are introduced to Canada. Cause disruption to the natural ecosystem by competing with native plants and animals for light, water, food, space and altering habitats. Depletion, and over time possible extinction, of native plants and animals, reduce biodiversity and permanently alter the landscape.

Economic and Ecological Impacts Total impact of Zebra Mussels in Ontario estimated to be between $75–91M per year (Marbek, 2010); responsible for endangering/threatening eight freshwater mussel species in Ontario (OMNRF). Emerald Ash Borer has killed over one million trees in Ontario; estimated $37 million/5 years to cut and replace city owned trees (City of Toronto); Canadian Food Inspection Agency has spent over $30 million and cut over 130,000 trees (CFIA). Permanent solution for Asian Carp could cost up to US$25B; US$99M already spent on electric barrier in Chicago Sanitary Canal (US Corps) and $17.5M in Canada on prevention.

Invasive Species Centre Connects: Stakeholders Knowledge Technology to prevent and reduce the spread of invasive species that harm Canada’s environment, economy and society.

Media Industry NGOs Teachers and Educators Municipal Governments Academia Federal Government Provincial Government Invasive Species Centre Build networks of experts and stakeholders to identify and act on priority invasive species.

Provide funding, coordinate and lead projects in natural and applied science, technology transfer, outreach and education.

Consolidate and disseminate information to raise awareness, leading to preventing the introduction and spread of harmful invasive species.

Where are Invasive Species listed in the Ontario Provincial Curriculum? The topic of invasive species is listed as an Ontario Provincial curriculum requirement in the Grade 6 Environmental Education Scope and Sequence of Expectations under the Science and Technology section. Invasive species are also mentioned as examples of topics which could fulfill certain curricular requirements for grades 4, 7, 9, 11 and 12

How to teach about Invasive Species One of the best ways students learn is through experiential (hands-on) learning Teachers can involve students in Community based action projects such as weed pulls, Citizen Science investigations, boat washes etc.

How to teach about Invasive Species Lessons about invasive species can also be developed using established lesson plans. Some plans include experiential learning projects that can be conducted around the neighbourhood or school ground. When preparation time is limited or weather conditions do not co- operate, in class learning about invasive species can involve crafts, music, written and oral reports, games, online interactive activities, videos, science experiments etc.

Where to find resources about Invasive Species? Links and descriptions of lesson plans which deal with invasive species are available through a sortable table of resources under “Learn about Invasive Species – Outreach and Education” on the Invasive Species Centre website.

Where to find resources about Invasive Species? Will also find a list of invasive species related Ontario post- secondary programs and career options

Information about specific Invasive Species? Visit our family of websites invasivespeciescentre.ca – “Learn about Invasive Species” forestinvasives.ca – “Meet the Species” asiancarp.ca – “Asian Carps”

14 Online portal for information about the invasive species that threaten Canada’s forests and FOREST INVASIVES CANADA insects | plants | pathogens

15 WEBINAR SERIES Background information on high priority forest pests Detection, control, and management strategies INSTRUCTIONAL VIDEOS How-to videos on invasive species management (EAB detection) Invasive species identification DISCUSSION FORUM Post an invasive species related question Engage in discussions FOR KEY INVASIVE SPECIES LIKE: INFORMATION & RESOURCES

Your resource for information on prevention, early warning measures, response and the threat of Asian carps to the Great Lakes and beyond. ASIAN CARP CANADA

Asian Carp Canada Website Resources of interest for teachers and students: Webinars Fact sheets FAQ’s Spot the Difference game

Contact: Taylor Wright, Project Coordinator (705) Our Goal: Create, train and equip Early Detection and Rapid Response (EDRR) networks to provide eyes on the ground to detect, respond to, and control invasive species in four pilot areas in Northern and Southern Ontario Free training workshops for volunteers to learn invasive plant identification, forest pest monitoring, reporting tools & more! Project website ( that houses invasive species resources such as best management practices and factsheets Development of educational resources to assist educators in teaching about invasive species, and providing opportunities for action and environmental stewardship

Environmental Stewardship This project supports local groups, volunteers and students to step up their efforts and contribute to invasive species management in a meaningful and practical way. Increase the awareness and collective knowledge of invasive species among citizens Develop a stronger environmental ethic at the community level Support and complete hands-on work to more rapidly detect and reduce invasive species Engage youth & students to foster environmental responsibility for future generations Restore and maintain our local habitats and recreational areas to preserve their natural beauty Together, we will:

Thank You!