Invading Species Awareness Program

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Invading Species Awareness Program Generating education & awareness of aquatic & terrestrial invading species

In 1992, the Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters, in partnership with the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry, established the Invading Species Awareness Program in order to address the increasing threats posed by invasive species in Ontario. Our objectives are to generate education and awareness of aquatic and terrestrial invasive species, address key pathways contributing to introductions and/or spread, and facilitate monitoring and early detection initiatives for invasive species found within Ontario.

10/15/2026

Don’t miss out on the fall colours this season, but don’t let hitchhikers ruin the fun!

Dry seeds from invasive species like phragmites, dog-strangling vine, and miscanthus love clinging to boot treads and dog fur this time of year.

Cleaning off your boots, clothes, and dog before you head home makes a huge difference in protecting our local forests!

Climate change can have drastic impacts on the establishment and spread of invasive species in Ontario. One example of t...
10/13/2026

Climate change can have drastic impacts on the establishment and spread of invasive species in Ontario.

One example of this is the introduction of water lettuce. Since water lettuce is a tropical to subtropical species, its introduced range is currently limited to southern Ontario, and cold winters are thought to prevent this aquatic plant from surviving over winter. Research suggests that as water temperatures rise from climate change, the range of water lettuce could expand northward and allow the species to overwinter, persisting for multiple years.

If you spot water lettuce, take a picture, note your location, and call the Invading Species Hotline at 1-800-563-7711.

Fisheries and Oceans Canada's Invasive Carp Program recently caught a triploid (sterile) male Grass Carp in the Thames R...
10/09/2026

Fisheries and Oceans Canada's Invasive Carp Program recently caught a triploid (sterile) male Grass Carp in the Thames River.

It is important to remain vigilant for Grass Carp while on the water. Look for the key identifying features:

- Eyes in line with mouth
- Large, dark-edged scales
- Short dorsal fin
- No barbels (whiskers at the corners of the mouth)

If you think you've seen a Grass Carp, call the Invading Species Hotline at 1-800-563-7711.

Check out the post below to learn more 👇

These fluffy plumes may look like the perfect fall decoration, but invasive phragmites is anything but festive. 🍂Using i...
10/08/2026

These fluffy plumes may look like the perfect fall decoration, but invasive phragmites is anything but festive. 🍂

Using invasive phragmites as a fall decoration can unintentionally help this invasive plant spread to new areas, threatening wetlands and native wildlife habitat.

The plant, when handled, can also cause skin irritation due to its fibrous nature.

This autumn, leave invasive phragmites where you find it and choose native alternatives for your fall decor instead. 🌾

🍂 Fall is a great time to spot and report invasive species. Many invasive plants stand out as native vegetation changes ...
10/06/2026

🍂 Fall is a great time to spot and report invasive species. Many invasive plants stand out as native vegetation changes colour or drops its leaves, making them easier to identify. Your observations can help protect local ecosystems.

You can report invasive species in three simple steps:
✔ Take a picture
✔ Note your location
✔ Report the sighting to www.EDDMapS.org or call the Invading Species Hotline at 1-800-563-7711

Hunters are reminded to be on the lookout for wild pig sightings. Wild pigs are not established in Ontario, but individu...
10/01/2026

Hunters are reminded to be on the lookout for wild pig sightings.

Wild pigs are not established in Ontario, but individual sightings have been confirmed. The term ‘wild pig’ refers to any pig outside of an enclosure, including escaped wild boar, feral domestic pigs, and any hybrids.

The main difference between wild pig and white-tailed deer tracks is that wild pigs have coffee bean-shaped toes and larger dew claws ending in a blunt point, while white-tailed deer have heart shaped toes and small, circular to oval dew claws.

If you spot a wild pig or signs of a wild pig, take pictures, note your location, and call the Invading Species Hotline at 1-800-563-7711 or email [email protected].

09/30/2026

Today, as Canadians mark the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, the OFAH takes time to reflect, listen, and learn.

It is an opportunity to remember the history and experiences that have shaped our country, while recognizing the importance of understanding, respect, and reconciliation as we look toward the future.

May today be a time for reflection, learning, and meaningful conversations.

Have you seen hydrilla?First detected in Ontario in 2024, hydrilla can spread quickly from small plant fragments. Early ...
09/29/2026

Have you seen hydrilla?

First detected in Ontario in 2024, hydrilla can spread quickly from small plant fragments. Early detection and reporting are key to preventing its spread.

If you see hydrilla, take photos, note the location, and report your sighting through the Invading Species Hotline at 1-800-563-7711 or online through EDDMapS.org.

Did you know transporting firewood risks spreading harmful invasive species? Forest pests like the emerald ash borer, sp...
09/24/2026

Did you know transporting firewood risks spreading harmful invasive species?

Forest pests like the emerald ash borer, spotted lanternfly, spongy moth, and Asian longhorned beetle lay their eggs on or under tree bark. By moving firewood, you could be accidentally spreading invasive species to healthy, pest-free areas.

Protect our forests: buy and burn your firewood locally!

Stay informed and report suspected sightings to the Invading Species Hotline at 1-800-563-7711 or online at www.EDDmapS.org.

The spotted lanternfly is an invasive pest wanted for crimes of damaged plants, stressed trees, and agricultural losses....
09/22/2026

The spotted lanternfly is an invasive pest wanted for crimes of damaged plants, stressed trees, and agricultural losses.

Although not established yet in Ontario, individual spotted lanternfly sightings have been confirmed. 👀 Keep an eye out for this colorful culprit and help stop its spread. If you see a spotted lanternfly, note your location, take photos, and call the Invading Species Hotline at 1-800-563-7711 or report online at www.EDDMapS.org.

Address

4601 Guthrie Drive
Peterborough, ON
K9J8L5

Opening Hours

Monday 9am - 5pm
Tuesday 9am - 5pm
Wednesday 9am - 5pm
Thursday 9am - 5pm
Friday 9am - 5pm

Telephone

+18005637711

Website

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