This Month, we invite you to celebrate Invasive Species Action Month with us—an opportunity to explore, learn, and protect the incredible ecosystems that surround us.
The theme this year is “Small Actions, Big Impact” because even the tiniest steps—like brushing your boots or planting native species—can help stop the spread of invasive species. Whether you’re in your backyard, walking a forest trail, or paddling a lake, your choices shape the future of our food systems, biodiversity, and natural spaces.
Each week this month, we’ll spotlight a new theme, with events and resources designed to spark curiosity and action:
May 1-9: Protecting Agriculture, First Foods, and Foraging
Invasive species threaten crops, First Foods, and wild harvests by disrupting ecosystems and outcompeting native plants.
Safeguarding food systems starts with preventing the spread of invasive species. This week, we’re spotlighting the essential connections between ecosystem health, food security, and cultural resilience. From farms to forests, invasive species pose a serious threat—they degrade soil, outcompete native plants, damage crops, and endanger First Foods that are deeply rooted in Indigenous knowledge and traditions.
Whether you’re harvesting potatoes, gathering wild mushrooms, or hiking a forest trail, your small actions can help protect vital food systems for generations to come.
May 10-16: Healthy Gardens and Naturescapes
Celebrate biodiversity by planting thoughtfully and making PlantWise choices to keep your yard and garden invasive-free.
Our gardens and greenspaces can be powerful tools for conservation. This week, we’re highlighting how thoughtful planting choices can support biodiversity, protect native species, and prevent the spread of invasive plants.
Whether you’re growing vegetables, vibrant flowers, or pollinator-friendly plants, choosing PlantWise options helps create healthier environments for birds, bees, and other wildlife. By avoiding invasive ornamentals, we reduce the risk of these species spreading into nearby forests, fields, and waterways.
Even small choices in our yards, parks, and community gardens add up—contributing to resilient ecosystems across B.C.
Be PlantWise: Learn which species to avoid and what to plant instead at beplantwise.ca
17-23 May: Enjoying Nature on Land
Invasive species can travel on boots, bikes, and pets—help protect our trails, parks, and wild spaces.
Spending time outdoors connects us with the land—but it also comes with responsibility. This week, we’re highlighting how hiking, biking, and other land-based activities can unintentionally spread invasive species. Seeds, spores, and soil can hitch a ride on our boots, pets, bikes, and gear, moving from one place to another without us even knowing.
The good news? Simple steps—like cleaning your gear, brushing off your boots, and checking your pet before and after outdoor adventures—can go a long way in protecting the health of forests, grasslands, and wild spaces.
These small actions help reduce the spread of invasive species and keep the places we love safe, thriving, and accessible for generations to come.
May 24-31: Enjoying Nature on Water
Protect our lakes, rivers, and wetlands from aquatic invaders by practicing Clean, Drain, Dry.
Lakes, rivers, and wetlands are essential for clean water, recreation, and healthy ecosystems. This week, we’re highlighting how water-based activities—such as boating, paddling, and fishing—can unintentionally spread invasive species between waterways. Aquatic invaders like zebra mussels and Eurasian watermilfoil threaten fish habitats, clog infrastructure, and disrupt the natural balance of our freshwater systems. The good news? Simple actions like cleaning, draining, and drying your gear can make a powerful difference. Whether you’re heading out for a paddle, launching a boat, or exploring the shoreline, you can help protect our waters for future generations.
Get Involved
Whether you’re planting, hiking, paddling, or picking berries, your small actions protect ecosystems, food security, and cultural traditions. Check out and register for the events we have planned this Invasive Species Action Month.
Events:
- May 1-9: Protecting Agriculture, First Foods, and Foraging
Community Session – Revelstoke Food Commons
“Boots, Berries & Invaders”
Friday, May 16 | 5–6 PM
Learn how to identify invasive plants, protect wild harvests, and take simple prevention steps.
This hands-on, all-ages event brings together community members, farmers, and knowledge keepers to explore how invasive species impact what we grow, gather, and eat. Learn how to prevent their spread while celebrating local food traditions and ecological stewardship.
Hosted by CSISS in partnership with the Revelstoke Local Food Initiative and the Indigenous Friendship Society.
Register here
- May 10-16: Healthy Gardens and Naturescapes
Information Booth – Revelstoke Garden Centre- Friday, May 16| 10 AM – 1 PM
Information Booth- Revelstoke Farmers Market- Saturday, May 17 | 8 AM- 1 PM
Chat with CSISS staff, pick up free resources, and explore native plant alternatives!
- May 17-23: Enjoying Nature on Land
Golden Plant ID Walk & BioBlitz
Thursday, May 22nd | 2–3 PM (MT)
Join us for a hands-on, educational walk through Keith King Memorial Park to celebrate Invasive Species Action Month! This free guided walk will introduce participants to common invasive plants found in the Golden area, how to identify and report them using the iNaturalist app, and how invasive species affect local biodiversity, recreation, and agriculture.
Whether you’re a seasoned naturalist or just curious about what’s growing in your neighbourhood, this event is for you. You’ll gain practical skills, contribute to local citizen science efforts, and help protect the native ecosystems we all value.
What to Bring:
- A smartphone or tablet with the free iNaturalist app installed
- Weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy footwear
- Your curiosity!
Register here.
- Enjoying Nature on Water
Aquatic Adventure & Clean Drain Dry Demo – Salmon Arm
Date TBC – Stay tuned!
Dive into aquatic species ID, demo stations, and hands-on prevention tips.
