While native plants support insects and provide food and shelter for millions of birds, invasive species put pressure on local ecosystems and reduce biodiversity. Many invasive plants were introduced (either intentionally or unintentionally) by people. This page brings together resources from organizations and community groups working to better understand invasive species and reduce their spread.

From Metro Vancouver Regional Parks’ brochure, Help Stop the Spread of Invasive Species:

What is an invasive plant?

It’s a plant species that isn’t native to our region and also tends to be super efficient at growing and spreading. Because it didn’t evolve here, it has no natural controls (predators, diseases, etc.) to keep it in check.

Why are invasive plants a problem?

There are lots of reasons, but here are a few:
• They affect wildlife by degrading habitat
• They can alter water flow and lead to erosion
• Some contain substances that are toxic to people and animals
• Some can increase the risk of wildfires”

A threat to traditional practices

Invasive species can also threaten Indigenous food systems, medicines, and cultural practices by displacing the native plants that people have cared for and relied on for generations.

The Invasive Species Council of BC helps groups work together to stop invasive species from spreading across the province. Their Indigenous Connections page shares how invasive species affect traditional practices and how Indigenous communities continue to guide land care across the province.

From removal to relationship

Much of the plant biodiversity around the Iona Island Bird Observatory is supported by Metro Vancouver Regional Parks staff through invasive pulls, native species planting, and ongoing maintenance. You can take a walk in the park during the spring or fall migration seasons to learn about the nearby native plants. Loop trail posters created as part of Stories in Flight share their connections to birds and people.

Across Metro Vancouver, there are also many hands-on opportunities to get involved in caring for local parks and natural areas, including through:

• The Metro Vancouver Ecological Restoration Team
• Everett Crowley Park Committee’s Stewardship sessions
• Stanley Park Ecology Society’s Dedicated Invasive Removal Team (DIRT) and EcoStewards programs
• Burns Bog Conservation Society’s invasive species removals
• Jericho Stewardship Group’s Stewardship Events 
• Burnaby Lake Park Association’s Weedbusters

Some organizations are finding ways to transform invasive plant removal into opportunities for art and community. For example, Free the Fern and the Everett Crowley Park Committee have partnered in the past to host Weeding and Weaving workshops using invasive English ivy.

Resources compiled by Paula Gomez Villalba | Jan 2026