A Renewed Ontario Invasive Species Strategic Plan

Invasive species are plants, animals and other organisms that are not native to the province or an area of the province and whose introduction or spread harms or is likely to harm the natural environment, society, or economy.

The diverse economy, growing population and geographic location of Ontario puts the province at heightened risk of new introductions and continued spread of invasive species. Actions to prevent and manage invasive species in the province are necessary to protect our strong economy and the communities that depend on it.

In 2023, we initiated a renewal of the Ontario Invasive Species Strategic Plan through Renewing the Ontario Invasive Species Strategic Plan (ERO#: 019-7582). We considered all input received in response to the posting and are now seeking feedback on a draft of the renewed Ontario Invasive Species Strategic Plan.

The renewed Ontario Invasive Species Strategic Plan proposes a new vision statement for the future: ‘The natural environment, communities and economy are protected from the harm caused by invasive species.’, and renewed overarching goals:

• Prevent the introduction and spread of invasive species
• Share knowledge to empower people to minimize the introduction and spread of invasive species
• Detect and respond to invasive species
• Manage invasive species to minimize their impacts, and
• Build resilience against the harm caused by invasive species 

The renewed Ontario Invasive Species Strategic Plan outlines a suite of proposed priority actions to guide progress. It places particular focus on clarifying roles and responsibilities, strengthening communication and coordination across government and partners, and advancing Indigenous partnership and participation.

Regulatory impact analysis

This proposal is seeking input on renewing an existing policy. As such, there are currently no environmental, social, economic or administrative costs.