Brian Minter: Invasive Species Council of B.C. needs our help

Most of us are aware of the problems caused by invasive weeds and plants in our lawns and gardens, but we all need to realize the extent of the damage being caused to our overall environment. The negative impact to our ecosystems, waterways, wildlife habitats, agriculture and communities is staggering.

We are very fortunate to have a group of dedicated people on the Invasive Species Council of B.C. (ISCBC), a registered charity and non-profit society that is making a difference in our lives. This is a dynamic, action-oriented group that is working hard to stop the spread of invasives in the province.

They’re “spearheading behaviour change in communities, organizations, governments and industry to help protect our province from invasive species”.

Since this has become such a serious challenge, the ISCBC has designated May the “Invasive Species Action Month”.

I had the chance to speak with Gail Wallin, executive director of the council, about the gravity of the many invasive species that are now widespread, not only in B.C., but also throughout North America.