My comments pertain to …

My comments pertain to Renewing the Ontario Invasive Species Strategic Plan, ERO# 019-758.

I have reviewed the associated documentation [Ontario Invasive Species Strategic Plan, Invasive Species Act, 2015, Ontario Invasive Species Strategic Plan: Review of Progress (2012-2022)], and I provide the following responses to the posted questions:

1. What is your vision for the future of invasive species prevention and management in the province?
My vision for the future of invasive species prevention and management in Ontario, is a more adaptive and responsive approach. 10 years is too long. With climate change and the importation of foreign goods, we're seeing new pests arrive at higher frequency. Fighting the invasive species of the future will take more funding and faster response. I also envision easier access to funding and throughout the year, as well as better connections with community groups to tackle invasive plants in their areas.

2. What opportunities are there for the future of invasive species prevention and management in Ontario?
The opportunities that exist are numerous. There are so many areas being threatened by species like non-native Buckthorn's and Phragmites that the possibilities for public engagement are endless. I think there are opportunities to leverage naturalist and concerned citizen groups with remedial tasks. At the moment I see very limited efforts. My biggest suggestion would be to create a network for each invasive species. The network could be as simple as hosting a map with the location of remedial service provides and organizations with projects. If you look at EDDMapS, you'll see potential areas that should be targeted, but many times what's shown on these Maps is too late. We need faster response. For example, on one hand, Japanese Knotweed is spreading at an increasing rate along the Grand River and nobody is doing anything to stop it. The population is exploding and expanding anywhere it gets rooted. On the other hand, Giant Hogweed has been spreading at a rate of about 400% year over year, and nothing was really being done except there's one guy how's volunteered his time to fight this plant as hard as he can, with the few volunteers and funding that he has. This is kind of ridiculous - the Province needs to step up and take things more seriously. Another example is the Ontario Phragmites Working Group, since 2011 they only have two projects listed on their website (Rondeau Bay and Long Point). As I watch Phragmites choke-off Blanding's Turtle habitat near me, I am demanding a better and more swifter action plan. Another option would be to enforce commercial and industrial properties to develop an invasive species eradication plan, where possible.

3. Do you think there are barriers related to invasive species prevention and management in Ontario? How could these barriers be addressed.
One of the major barriers is funding. I see micro-grants being applied, but they are limited and often have a short window to apply. I would suggest leaving the application window open. I would also suggest helping groups build partnerships. Another problem is bureaucracy. Studies, committees, and plans, don't seem to be worth their cost. Just get on with identifying key locations and projects, and invest. Communication is key. Provide a map showing service providers would be a great step in breaking down barriers.