​​Residents invited to share feedback to help protect local ecosystems and biodiversity

BRAMPTON, ON (May 7, 2025) – The City of Brampton is taking an important step toward safeguarding its natural areas and green infrastructure with the development of its first-ever Invasive Species Management Strategy (ISMS)​. This comprehensive strategy will guide how the City prevents, detects, manages and monitors invasive species that threaten Brampton’s environment and quality of life, and will outline Brampton’s approach to invasive species prevention, early detection, rapid response and long-term management. 

Invasive species are non-native plants, animals or pests that spread quickly and can cause serious harm to the environment. They often take over habitats, outcompete native species and disrupt local ecosystems. 

​The Spongy Moth is an invasive species found in Brampton. Credit: Shutterstock

To help shape this important initiative, the City is launching a public survey to gather input from residents, community organizations and stakeholders. The feedback will help identify key priorities, areas of concern and actions residents and the community want to see considered in the strategy. In 2026, the City will publish a draft version of the ISMS and invite public input to finalize the strategy.

In Canada, 254 invasive species are federally regulated, with Ontario identifying 42 species and related groups of concern. In Brampton, species such as the Common Buckthorn and Spongy Moth threaten natural areas and urban forests, green spaces that play a key role in improving air quality, managing stormwater and supporting wildlife.

The ISMS is a tangible action stemming from Brampton’s Grow Green Environmental Master Plan, setting out a long-term vision and action plan to advance environmental sustainability across the city. This strategy directly supports the Plan’s goals related to protecting natural heritage, enhancing urban biodiversity and building ecological resilience. Learn how to identify and prevent invasive species and more about the master plan at brampton.ca/growgreen.​

Have your say - Help shape Brampton’s Invasive Species Management Strategy 

Public feedback is key to the successful development of the Invasive Species Management Strategy. Residents, community groups and organizations are invited to share their input through an online survey until August 29, 2025. By completing the survey, participants will be entered into a draw for a chance to win a gift card. The survey can be accessed here.​

Quotes

“Invasive species are one of the most pressing threats to our environment, and their impact is already being felt across our city. Brampton’s Invasive Species Management Strategy is a bold and necessary step to protect our green spaces, biodiversity and quality of life. I encourage all residents to share their voice and help shape a greener, healthier Brampton for future generations.” - Patrick Brown, Mayor, City of Brampton

​“This strategy is more than a plan, it is a city-wide call to action. By preserving our urban forests and natural ecosystems, we are investing in climate resilience, public health and future livability. We are proud to be taking a proactive, community-driven approach to environmental stewardship.”- Rowena Santos, Regional Councillor, Wards 1 and 5; Chair, Community Services Section, City of Brampton