Proclamation for Invasive Species Week

Whereas this February 23 to March 1, 2026, marks Invasive Species Awareness Week that has been recognized by municipalities, environmental groups and industry across Canada; and

Whereas Invasive Species Awareness Week is a national environmental campaign that builds awareness around the problems caused by invasive species which are non-native, aggressively spreading aquatic and terrestrial plants, animals, and pathogens; and

Whereas invasive species can impact the numerous natural heritage areas, shorelines, corridors, and recreational trails within in the Town of Arnprior including Bell Park, Nopiming Game Preserve, and Gillies Grove; and

Whereas the spread of invasive species poses risk to our local biodiversity, the health of our residents, and our infrastructure; and

Whereas we, as a municipality, are committed to acts of conservation for supporting our local biodiversity, both terrestrial and aquatic; and

Whereas we, as a municipality, will act against invasive species through a public education campaign aimed at community awareness and involvement in identifying, reporting and preventing the spread of invasive species. This year’s themes include:

• Learning About Invasive Species
• Pathways of Spread
• Invasive Species Research and Science
• How You Can Prevent the Spread
• Reporting

Now Therefore I, Ted Strike, Deputy Mayor, do hereby proclaim February 23rd to March 1st, 2026, as Invasive Species Awareness Week in the Town of Arnprior and urge residents to learn about invasive species in our areas and take action to prevent their spread.

Ted Strike, Deputy Mayor
Town of Arnprior