Invasive plants (also known as noxious weeds) are typically non-native plants that have been introduced to the Comox Valley without their natural insect predators or plant pathogens to keep them in check. For this reason, and because of their aggressive growth, these invasive plant species can be highly destructive, competitive and difficult to control. Bylaw No. 2347, Schedule A, lists the invasive species for the electoral areas within the CVRD.
Vancouver Island and our surrounding coastal communities possess some of the world's most diverse and rare ecosystems and support many endangered species that depend on these unique habitats for their survival. Weed control helps to protect our agricultural productivity and biodiversity from the negative impact of invasive plants.
What you can do about invasive plants:
The Coastal Invasive Species Committee (Coastal ISC) appreciates the cooperation of all residents in addressing Knotweed and Giant Hogweed. Local residents in the CVRD's electoral areas can benefit from subsidized treatments by select spot application this summer. Help us be on the lookout for invasive species so we can stop the spread of these noxious weeds.
Reporting Knotweed and Giant Hogweed is very important in controlling these priority invasive plants in the region. Report sightings of these noxious weeds by email info@coastalisc.com or calling 250-871-5117 in the Comox Valley; toll free on Vancouver Island 1-844-298-2532. To find more information please go to the Coastal ISC website.
Various areas in the Comox Valley Regional District (CVRD) are threatened by a number of invasive plant species. Learn more here:
- Toxic invasive plants in the Comox Valley brochure
- Toxic invasive plants in the Comox Valley brochure poster
- Knotweed alert sheet
- Giant hogweed alert sheet
What can you do about invasive plants?
Homeowners or occupants within the electoral areas of the CVRD are responsible for keeping their property clear from noxious weeds.
Here are three ways to control their spread:
- Use site and species appropriate methods such as hand pulling, digging, cutting and mowing.
- Deadhead flowers, seedpods and berries of known invasive plants to prevent reproduction through seeds and to reduce seed spread by birds, wildlife, pets and people.
- Use proper methods to dispose of invasive plant parts and seeds responsibly.
Resources and Identification
“Grow me instead” is a helpful document developed by the Invasive Plant Council of BC to help you identify invasive plants frequently found in gardens across BC and to provide suitable alternatives for a range of growing zones in this diverse province.
Learn more about identifying noxious weeds, planting alternatives, and how to take action against invasive species in the CVRD with these other resources:
- Invasive Species Council of BC
- Coastal Invasive Species Committee
- Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations – Invasive species information
You can also participate in local invasive plant programs such as Broombusters and the Comox Valley Naturalists Society.
Since 2013, the Comox Valley Invasive Species Partnership – composed of the Comox Valley Regional District, City of Courtenay, Town of Comox and Village of Cumberland – has worked together to combat the negative effects of invasive species in the Comox Valley. The partners pool resources and consult the guidance and expertise of professionals from the Coastal Invasive Species Committee.