Priority invasive species

Invasive species are prioritized at a Provincial scale using a science-based risk assessment process. Management actions are further determined based on these priorities at a both Provincial and Regional scale and depending on available resources and treatment methods. 

Preventing the initial introduction, establishment and spread of invasive plants is the single most effective method of invasive plant control. Collaboration with land managers across North America and beyond and completion of inventory projects, and “shelf ready” risk assessments are a key part of prevention. Once an invasive species arrives,  it is managed through the Provincial Early Detection and Rapid Response program to determine the risk to the Province and the potential for eradication. For more established species, the priority level may differ depending on the location of the Province and/or specific values at risk from that invasive species in a given area. The management categories presented below have been developed by the B.C. Inter-Ministry Invasive Species Working Group and the Provincial Government’s Invasive Species Specialists. The invasive species are presented in management categories based on a Provincial scale, and do not take into consideration local or regional criteria. The list does not include marine (saltwater) species.

• Download the current list of Priority Invasive Species in B.C. (PDF, 300KB)

Priority categories:

Prevent: 

Species determined to be high risk to B.C. and not yet established. Management objective is prevent the introduction and establishment.

Provincial Early Detection and Rapid Response (EDRR):

Species is high risk to B.C. and is new to the Province. Management objective is eradication.

Provincial Containment:

Species is high risk with limited extent in B.C. but significant potential to spread. Management objective is to prevent further expansion into new areas with the ultimate goal of reducing the overall extent.

Regional Containment/Control: 

Species is high risk and well established, or medium risk with high potential for spread.  Management objective is to prevent further expansion into new areas within the region through establishment of containment lines and identification of occurrences outside the line to control. 

Management: 

Species is more widespread but may be of concern in specific situations with certain high values - e.g., conservation lands, specific agriculture crops.  Management objective is to reduce the invasive species impacts locally or regionally, where resources are available.