Invasive Species

Invasive species are plants, animals, or pests introduced outside their natural habitat that can disrupt local ecosystems, affect our communities, and impact the economy.

Learn more about how they spread, the risks they pose, and what you can do to help protect Ajax’s environment.

What are invasive species?

Invasive species can be plants, animals, and micro-organisms.

Learn more about some of the invasive species that are a concern for Ontario

How do invasive species get here?

The term pathway is used to identify the physical means by which an invasive species is transported to a new region by humans, either deliberately or accidentally. Some of the most common invasive species pathways include movement of firewood, horticulture, pet release, and recreation such as hiking and boating.

How do invasive species impact the environment?

Invasive species can cause immeasurable impacts by causing irreversible damage to the environmental and critical habitat, reducing biodiversity by outcompeting native species, requiring significant amount of money for prevention and management, and directly impacting human health and community wellbeing.

A narrow brook winds through a green valley with trees, open fields, and a distant residential area under power lines.

What can you do to help stop the spread of invasive species?

Ajax residents can help prevent the spread of invasive species by staying informed and taking simple, proactive steps in their homes and neighbourhoods.

Residents can support prevention by avoiding the planting or transport of invasive plants, cleaning footwear and gear before and after visiting natural areas, properly disposing of garden waste, and learning to identify and report invasive species when they appear. By taking these everyday actions, community members play an essential role in protecting Ajax’s local ecosystems and maintaining long‑term environmental health.