What is an invasive species?
An invasive species [PDF] is any non-native species whose introduction causes—or is likely to cause—harm to the environment, the economy, or human health.
The term “invasive” is used for the most aggressive species. These species grow and reproduce rapidly, potentially causing major disturbances. Many invasive species are introduced to an area by accident (although many species have been deliberately introduced).
Read about hemlock woolly adelgid, an invasive insect affecting hemlock trees in the municipality.
How do I learn more about Invasive species?
Are you concerned about a potential invasive species on your property? The Nova Scotia Invasive Species Council has many resources available, including fact sheets, which will help with identification and tips for management and removal. The Guide to Invasive Species of Nova Scotia is also a great resource for learning more about invasive species in our region.
Read about yellow floating heart, an invasive plant currently found in Little Albro Lake.
What is the municipality doing about invasive species?
In the Halifax Regional Municipality, the municipal government is responsible for removing invasive species from its own properties.
Regional Council approved a draft Integrated Pest Management strategy in July 2022. The strategy was developed using best management practices from other jurisdictions, and feedback from experts in the field. This is meant to be a living document, to allow for flexible, adaptable approaches to pest and invasive species management and to allow for additional species to be added over time.
For more information and news about ongoing management of specific species, please see the Related Links to the right of the page, and the Related Files section at the bottom of the page.
What is Integrated Pest Management?
Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is a holistic, ecological decision-making model to help prevent and manage pest damage with a focus on preventative measures and an emphasis on reducing pesticide use. This is done by using a combination of prevention practices and carefully selected control strategies and treatments to reduce the impacts of pests on people, property, and the environment.
Climate change will impact the spread of invasive species by creating more favourable conditions for species adapted to warmed regions. Implementing an IPM strategy now allows the municipality time to manage existing populations in an ecologically responsible manner, and to plan for future outbreaks.
Managing and removing invasive species can be resource-intensive, so the municipality is prioritizing our approach to focus on species that pose the greatest risks to human health, property, and sensitive ecosystems.
You can download the latest version on the IPM strategy below.