Do It Yourself. Stop Invasives Together.
ISAM’s 2026 theme is “Do it yourself. Stop invasives together.”, focuses on equipping individuals, youth groups, organizations and communities with the knowledge, tools, and confidence you need to identify and mitigate the impacts of invasive species in their own communities. Everyone can take simple, do-it-yourself steps to prevent and manage invasive species right where you live. Small, tangible actions add up to big results! You don’t need to be a scientist or land manager to make a difference. Invasive species often spread through everyday activities like hiking, camping, gardening, boating, or taking your dog for a walk. That means we all have a role to play in stopping their spread!
Protect Where you Play
Spending time outdoors connects us with nature – but it also comes with responsibility. Invasive species can hitchhike on boots, bikes, boats, pets, and gear, spreading between trails, waterbodies, and campsites. By taking a few simple steps before and after your outdoor activities, you can help protect the places you love and prevent the spread of invasive species. Please see the links below for more information.
Plant Wise
Gardens, yards, and community greenspaces can be part of the solution to invasive species. By choosing native or non-invasive plants, you can support pollinators, wildlife, and healthy ecosystems. Invasive plants often escape from gardens into natural areas – so planting wisely helps protect biodiversity both at home and beyond your backyard. Please use the resources below when planning, planting and cleaning up your gardens.
Spot it. Stop it.
Early detection is one of the most powerful tools in preventing the spread of invasive species. Many invasions go unnoticed until they are well established. By learning how to identify and report invasive species, anyone can help protect local ecosystems. With tools like iNaturalist and a few simple identification tips, you can turn curiosity into action. Please see our reporting form as well our library of invasive plants to help with identification!
Stop Invasives Together
Stopping invasive species is a shared responsibility. When individuals, communities, and organizations work together, small actions add up to meaningful impact. Whether it’s participating in a bioblitz, reporting sightings, removing invasive plants, or educating others, collective action helps protect ecosystems across Canada. Contact us to learn how to set up a Community Invasive Plant Pull!