The East Kootenay Invasive Plant Council (EKIPC) is pleased to announce the creation of an Invasive Plant Education Program. This program is free, and is available to anyone residing within the boundaries of the RDEK.

Invasive plants are typically non-native plant species that have been introduced to British Columbia. Since these plants are introduced, there are no insect predators or plant diseases to keep them under control, and so these invasive plants are outcompeting the native plants of B.C. Invasive plants negatively affect wildlife habitats, water systems, range and farm land as well as your own backyard. Introduced species are the second biggest threat to biodiversity worldwide (after habitat loss), and the longer we hesitate to control them the more expensive it will be to eradicate them. The first step is to learn which species are invasive in your area.

To help tackle invasive plants in the East Kootenay, Alison Burton (Plant Scientist) and Jessie Kendrick (Horticulturist) have created this education program, which is appropriate for a wide range of audiences.

This hour-long program has been linked to curriculum for grades K to 12, and consists of specific activities, games and information geared to the different age levels.

The program is available for interested Community groups as well, whether it’s a local garden club, Scouts or Guides, a 4-H club, ATV group or a gathering of neighbours - there is something for everyone in this program.

“It’s not always easy to guess which plants are invasive, so it’s important for people to learn what is invasive in their area” notes Alison. “We need everyone’s help to prevent the spread of invasive plants, and also to control the ones that we already do have here.”

All participants will learn to identify the important invasive plants in their area, and depending on the age group we will also discuss control techniques and best management practices, ecological and economic impacts, legal responsibilities, proper disposal, life cycles and more.

“We are also launching a logo competition, open to the public to create the image for the EKIPC,” says Jessie. “There will be a prize offered to the winner and we encourage youngsters to enter as well.”

For more information, or to book the education program for your classroom or community group please contact Alison Burton invasiveweeds@gmail.com or Jessie Kendrick ekweeds@gmail.com.