Priority Invasive Species
While a range of invasive species can be found on the Saugeen Bruce Peninsula, the SPISC has identified four priority plant species to focus control efforts on: Common Buckthorn, Dog-Strangling Vine, Garlic Mustard, and Phragmites australis
Common Buckthorn
Native to Europe, it was introduced to North America as an ornamental shrub for fencerows and wildlife habitat. Because of its tolerance of a wide range of moisture and light conditions, along with its prolific seed production, buckthorn is able to successfully invade many habitats.
Dog-Strangling Vine
European swallow-wort, most commonly know as dog-strangling vine, is a member of the milkweed family. While native to Eastern Europe, it has become established throughout many parts of southern Ontario and continues to spread at an alarming rate. Its prolific seeds are small and have a feathery parachute attached, making them easily dispersed by the wind and able to travel great distances.
Garlic Mustard
Brought to North America by early colonists, this invasive plant is now spreading across the continent at a rate of 6,400 square kilometres per year. The success of garlic mustard is multi-faceted. Aside from having no natural predators in North America, its low palatability and toxic cyanide production make it an unfavourable choice for most native herbivores.
Invasive Phragmites
Invasive phragmites, a large perennial reed grass native to Europe and Asia, is quickly spreading throughout North America. This plant is capable of forming extensive monocultures that obscure sightlines, block drainage ditches, and destroy wildlife habitat. The extensive underground root network of this plant allow it to grow in a range of habitats, spread quickly, and make it difficult to eradicate.