Invasive Plant Species

An invasive species is any plant or animal species that is introduced into an environment where the species is not native. There are numerous examples of plants, insects, birds and animals that have been transplanted from their natural environments, either by accident or intentionally, into areas where they end up having a serious impact on the natural ecosystem.

In 2011, Japanese Knotweed was added to the list of noxious weeds in BC and recently it was added to the Untidy and Unsightly Premises Bylaw No. 6982 which requires that residents dispose of this and other noxious weeds, when their presence is noted on private property.

Japanese Knotweed is one of over 35 invasive plant species that have been identified in British Columbia. 

Maple Ridge would like to let you know more information about this specific invasive plant, Japanese Knotweed and provide some overall information on what is happening in our community to control this and other invasive plants.

Doing nothing is NOT an option!

To be clear, Maple Ridge has been dealing with Invasive and noxious plants for a number of years, and the addition of Japanese Knotweed and Giant Hogweed to the list of noxious weeds is going to have an impact on every community in the Lower Mainland.

The long term control plan was presented to Council's as part of the 2013-2018 Business Plan.

Our current recommendation for private land owners is to ensure that the control of Japanese Knotweed and other noxious weeds is done by an individual or company that has a "Pesticide User License."

Please report any patches of Japanese Knotweed or Giant Hogweed by calling our main switchboard at 604-463-5221 and you will be forwarded to a staff member who will record the information. You can also send us a letter, postcard or an email.

Together, we will get this under control, and this serves as an important reminder to avoid planting non-native plant species in your garden without checking to ensure that it won't become the next addition to the Noxious Weed list.

Noxious Weeds Identification

Canada Thistle

Flowering Rush

Giant Hogweed

Knotweed

Purple Loosestrife

Scentless Chamomile

Tansy Ragwort

Yellow Flag Iris