District Receives Favourable Response on Invasive Species Removal Project

The Parks and Trails Master Plan identified "Encourage and support stewardship efforts to remove invasive species" (p. 63). While this work is ongoing, through a partnership with the CRD, the District of Sooke has been chosen as a successful applicant on a Stronger BC invasive species project.

In a brief, the Invasive Species Council of B.C. explains about the program:

"The Invasive Species Council of BC is rolling Stronger BC Action Teams in 10 regions of the province. The main goal of the Stronger BC program is to provide training and employment to individuals who have lost employment opportunities due to the current pandemic. Indigenous people, women, youth, and applicants from economic sectors impacted by Covid-19 are encouraged to apply for Action Team positions. Action teams learn how to use ISCBC’s remote communications (virtual) platform, participate in remote (virtual/online) orientation and training and perform all duties according to the Provincial Health Orders with health and safety practices as a priority.

Action Teams are learning new skills and gaining experience in the natural resource sector by participating in formal training sessions and on-the-ground invasive species management projects. Each team has a supervisor and 3 crew members. Each team works for 3-4 months in their project area."

What this means for Sooke:

Action Teams will assist with invasive species removal in several key areas:

Area Target Species
Nott Pond at John Phillips Memorial Park Policeman’s Helmet
Nott Brook Stream Survey Policeman’s Helmet
Sunriver Nature Trail English Holly

Residents can expect the action team to be working in these areas during the summer months. As you see a team at work, please join us in thanking them for making a significant contribution in caring for our local environment.

Interested in assisting with invasive species removal?

Post-COVID, the District is looking to offer seasonal education opportunities to participate in community invasive species removal events. Complete this form to be added to a participant interest list.


Links to learn more:


Pictured: Policeman's Helmet. What does it threaten? This plant spreads aggressively along riverbanks and may replace native perennials, possibly resulting in erosion. Significant nectar stores may draw native pollinators away from native flowers. Dense stands may exclude native plants and wildlife.


Policeman's Helmet




Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on Linkedin Email this link
<span class="translation_missing" title="translation missing: en-US.projects.blog_posts.show.load_comment_text">Load Comment Text</span>