National Invasive Alien Species Workshop. Ottawa, Ontario - February 25, 2016

Transcription

1 National Invasive Alien Species Workshop Ottawa, Ontario - February 25, 2016 Prepared by: Canadian Council on Invasive Species for the Federal-Provincial-Territorial Invasive Alien Species Task Force SUMMARY REPORT

2 Prepared by: Canadian Council on Invasive Species for the Federal-Provincial-Territorial Invasive Alien Species Task Force Conseil Canadien sur les Espèces Envahissantes Canadian Council on Invasive Species Le Conseil canadien des espèces exotiques envahissantes or Taking Action from Coast to Coast to Coast! Passer à l action d un océan à l autre et plus

3 TABLE OF CONTENTS Executive Summary... 1 Introduction and Overview... 2 Welcome and Opening Remarks... 2 Overview of Agenda and Round Table... 2 Setting the Stage... 2 Moving Forward: Key Priorities and Actions... 4 Presentation 1. Invasive Alien Species Task Force... 4 Presentation 2. Canadian Council on Invasive Species... 5 Breakout Sessions... 6 Session One: Key Priorities and Actions... 6 Session Two: Explore opportunities to enhance nation-wide coordination and collaboration, and to develop strategic partnerships to address IAS Moving Forward Appendix 1. Participants Appendix 2. An Invasive Alien Species Strategy for Canada - Presentation Appendix 3. National IAS Task Force - Summary of Key Priorities Appendix 4. Canadian Council on Invasive Species - Summary of Key Priorities Appendix 5. National IAS Task Force - Presentation Appendix 6. Canadian Council on Invasive Species - Presentation Summary Report i

4 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Invasive alien species are a recognized threat to Canada s environment, economy and society. In response to this, An Invasive Alien Species Strategy for Canada in 2004 was developed by federal departments and agencies, provinces and territories to provide a framework to guide actions to address this threat. Since this time, a number of actions have been undertaken by governments, environmental non-governmental organizations, industry, academia and citizens to help support the prevention, early detection, rapid response and management of invasive species. To further support the goals of the Strategy, Ministers responsible for Conservation, Wildlife and Biodiversity established a representative federal-provincial-territorial (FPT) Invasive Alien Species (IAS) Task Force to identify priority actions to better position Canadian efforts. To ensure a national perspective on priority actions, the IAS Task Force, in partnership with the Canadian Council on Invasive Species, held a national workshop on February 25, 2016 to share perspectives on priorities and potential actions to improve invasive alien species prevention and management in Canada. There were 50 participants including representatives from various levels of government, industry, provincial and territorial invasive species councils, academia and other non-governmental and non-profit organizations. Presentations provided an overview of progress on implementation of the Strategy, and shared the results of jurisdictional scans of FPT governments, and invasive species councils on key priorities and actions. Five key themes emerged from the workshop: the importance of further inter-jurisdictional coordination, the need for increased funding, the importance of stronger education and awareness, the need for enhanced emergency response actions, and the value of facilitating more collaboration and strategic partnerships. The input obtained from the workshop, will be used as the foundation for future IAS actions. It was clear there was a strong optimism and willingness by organizations represented at the workshop to support the implementation of these goals. 1 National IAS Workshop

5 INTRODUCTION AND OVERVIEW On February 25, 2016, the federal-provincial-territorial (FPT) Invasive Alien Species (IAS) Task Force held a workshop in partnership with the Canadian Council on Invasive Species (CCIS) to bring together various levels of government, aboriginal organizations, industry representatives, provincial and territorial invasive species councils and other nongovernmental organizations to share perspectives on priorities and potential actions to improve IAS prevention and management in Canada. Key areas for discussion included Canada s progress with respect to the implementation of An Invasive Alien Species Strategy for Canada 2004 (the Strategy) and opportunities for improved national coordination, collaboration and partnerships. WELCOME AND OPENING REMARKS The day started with introductions from Ala Boyd (Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry) and Robert McLean (Environment and Climate Change Canada), co-chairs of the FPT IAS Task Force. They provided background information to the attendees about the IAS Task Force and established the key objectives for the day. In summary, the mandate of the IAS Task Force is: 1. To identify key gaps, priority actions and best practices, to better position Canadian efforts in the fight against invasive alien species 2. To identify opportunities for: Strengthening the policy framework, Improving leadership, coordination and collaboration Development of strategic partnerships OVERVIEW OF AGENDA AND ROUND TABLE The facilitator, Gail Wallin, provided an overview of the agenda and led a round table of introductions. There were 45 attendees present, with five attendees participating via teleconference. The participants included representatives from governments, nongovernment organizations and industry from across Canada. See Appendix 1 for a list of participants. SETTING THE STAGE Kelly Torck, from Environment Canada and Climate Change Canada, provided an overview of the Strategy, progress on implementation and key accomplishments, including mechanisms for coordination and collaboration. Read below for a summary of the presentation. In 2004, in response to the growing threat of IAS, FPT resource ministers came together to develop the Strategy. The goal of the Strategy is to protect Canada s aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems, their native biological diversity and domestic plants and animals, from the risks of IAS. Summary Report 2

6 The Strategy provides a framework for actions to minimize the risks of IAS to the environment, economy and society through four, prioritized goals: Prevention Early detection Rapid response Management (Containment, Control, Eradication) Implementation strategies include: Risk Analysis Science Legislation and Regulations Education and Outreach International Cooperation Priority Setting Criteria Since 2004, significant progress on the implementation of the Strategy has occurred by all levels of government, ENGOS, industry groups, and academic institutions. A few of these key accomplishments are described below (see Appendix 2 for further details): Prevention Ongoing risk assessments (RAs) at the federal level Some risk management plans for high-risk pathways completed Collaboration with US to prevent introduction of Asian carp into the Great Lakes Development of federal and provincial legislation, and regulations to address IAS Early Detection Species-specific surveillance activities and networks created (e.g. Asian Carp, tunicate surveillance in the Gulf, Plant Pests Surveys, IAS Forest Pests Surveys) National Early Detection Working Group for Invasive Plants developed Federal-Provincial partnerships to enhance detection capacity for plants and plant pests established Rapid Response Development of Critical Plant Pest Management Committees Development of an Invasive Plant Early Detection Rapid Response Plan for BC Cooperation with the US to respond to key threats (e.g. Asian carp, Asian Long Horned Beetle) Management Several pest and weed risk assessments completed Management Plans developed to control forest pests Some management plans implemented (e.g. wooly cupgrass) Continued Need for Action In 2010, the Canadian Biodiversity: Ecosystem Status and Trends report, identified again that invasive, non-native species are a significant stressor on ecosystem functions, processes and structure, and this impact is increasing as numbers continue to rise and their distributions continue to expand. To further support the Strategy and future national IAS efforts, in February 2015, Ministers responsible for Conservation, Wildlife and Biodiversity agreed to establish the representative FPT IAS task force. 3 National IAS Workshop

7 MOVING FORWARD: KEY PRIORITIES AND ACTIONS Presentation 1. Invasive Alien Species Task Force Ala Boyd, (Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry) and Isobel Heathcote (Wyndham Research Inc.) on behalf of the IAS Task Force Isobel Heathcote (Wyndham Research Inc.) provided a summary of the results of jurisdictional interviews with IAS Task Force representatives from each province, territory, and federal agency/department. The focus of the interviews were to identify priority actions to better position Canada s efforts in the fight against invasive alien species. The focus of the jurisdictional interviews were to identify priorities and actions that were national in scope; relevant and beneficial to more than one jurisdiction, strengthened IAS policy framework in Canada, encouraged collaboration and are cost effective and sustainable over the long term. The results reflected a broad range of comments reflecting a range of perspectives and priorities. The following were the most frequently cited actions: Strengthen/ coordinate legislation and regulations Develop a National Public Education Campaign Enhance and stabilize funding Establish an inter-jurisdictional coordination mechanism Develop a system for early detection and rapid response Create a national IAS database Increase risk assessment capacity Prioritize pathways according to risk and implement management plans for high-risk ones Increase capacity for inspections and enforcement at Canada s borders Conduct/support research on treatment methods and technologies The Task Force members also cited a number of opportunities, obstacles and partnerships related to the above actions. Summary Report 4

8 Presentation 2. Canadian Council on Invasive Species Barry Gibbs, CCIS To further assist the Task Force in identifying key gaps, priority actions and best practices on a national scale, the Task Force asked the CCIS to gather information from Council members on this subject and summarize into a report. Barry Gibbs from the CCIS then presented the results at the workshop. The CCIS was established in 2012, and brings together invasive species councils, committees, provincial government and coalitions representing the majority of provinces and territories in Canada. The national organization was formed as a result of a joint Canada wide meeting in 2009 along with key recommendations from the 2012 National Invasive Species Forum to establish a national voice to share and coordinate knowledge across Canadian borders. The CCIS had many similar perspectives and priorities as the IAS Task Force. The following were the CCIS most frequently cited actions: Strengthen leadership and coordination Establish and enforce regulatory tools Ensure effective emergency response to high-risk species Ensure effective management Increase financial resources Increase effective education and extension Increase research and ensure linkage to practices The CCIS also cited a number of opportunities associated with each action, including facilitating a North American Invasive Species Framework and partnering with CCIS for education and information, to name a few. 5 National IAS Workshop

9 BREAKOUT SESSIONS The basis for the day was to work in small groups, so participants could ensure their perspectives were heard. Groups were tasked with identifying detailed actions to support eight of the larger actions already identified by the IAS Task Force and the CCIS. Canada s biodiversity goals and targets for 2020 are aspirational objectives that Canada will strive to achieve by 2020 and are intended to encourage and promote collective action. One of the targets is related to IAS and, therefore it was recognized that 2020 be used as a key milestone for actions identified at this workshop. Based on this, discussions focused on key actions and outcomes that were desired by Session One: Moving Forward - Key Priorities and Actions Identify key priorities and actions to strengthen Canada s policy framework to address IAS in Canada Workshop participants were broken into six groups, to further identify key priority areas and specific actions, key players and desired outcomes to address IAS in Canada. The workshop participants were asked to do this using the findings of the IAS Task Force and the CCIS as the initial basis of the discussion. The objective of this session was to build clear actions and priorities to complete by 2020 and beyond. The key themes for discussion were emergency response, operations and pathways, inter-jurisdictional coordination, national IAS database, IAS legislation and regulations, IAS funding and IAS research. See the summarized results below. Summary Report 6

10 Emergency Response, Operations and Pathways TOP THREE KEY ACTIONS 1. Complete risk assessments for priority species and pathways, and conduct an analysis of pathways that may not yet have been analysed as a potential source of invasive species introductions. 2. Create an Early Detection and Rapid Response (EDRR) framework for Canada, with a component for each province and territory to follow to implement their own EDRR framework. 3. Establish a rapid response fund to assist with response activities. OTHER 4. Establish mutual aid agreements for response between jurisdictions. 5. Ensure risk assessment protocols and processes are consistent nationally and internationally and share with provinces/territories. 6. Clarify Federal-Provincial-Territorial (FPT) roles and responsibilities when it comes to response. 7. Develop an active communication or alert system and plan for rapid response. 8. Develop a mechanism to facilitate sharing lessons learned from rapid response experiences. 9. Improve and streamline access to pesticides and IAS management tools for response. Inter-jurisdictional Coordination TOP THREE KEY ACTIONS 1. Develop a contact list/network that identifies: - Key organizations/cities/agencies/stakeholders and their roles - Subject matter experts and assesses gaps to ensure expert capacity for the future - Contact list to be completed by 2017, by all workshop partners. 2. Formalize the FPT IAS Task Force as a long-term committee, to focus on planning and prevention, and help to increase full engagement of relevant FPT ministries. 3. Link surveillance/monitoring networks. - Analyse capacity and response mechanisms of each - Develop a training program for border officers to assist with IAS monitoring and prevention 7 National IAS Workshop

11 OTHER 4. Address any gaps that arise from development of the contact list/network, including eliminating any overlap and ensuring communication between like contacts. 5. Create a clear visual of the contact list/network and their roles and responsibilities that can be circulated nation-wide to relevant organizations and government ministries. 6. Strengthen the linkages to international opportunities and information sharing. 7. Integrate wildlife health programs and FPT committees more fully into IAS action. 8. Coordinate and share information on potential IAS risks with trade partners. 9. Ensure strong communication within other IAS related organizations and agencies. 10. Include municipalities in coordination and communication of IAS. National Invasive Alien Species Database TOP THREE KEY ACTIONS 1. Create a National IAS Monitoring database with a specific target audiences and purpose in mind. - Database should be managed by someone other than the federal government - Should complement, not replace, existing reporting systems - Should link to species resources and allow a data query function to generate species lists, specific maps etc. 2. Identify existing regional/national/provincial IAS monitoring databases to understand what kind of information is being collected around the country (i.e. observations, treatments, as well as what each database s data verification process is and what their data sharing policies are). 3. Ensure long-term funding for the maintenance of the national database and assisting the development of monitoring systems in regions/jurisdictions that don t have any in place. OTHER 4. Maintain a network of experts that can assist with species identification, management etc., separate from the national database. 5. Develop/define common data standards that should be applied to the national database - Will assist with deciding what information to accept/reject - When developing/defining common data standards, consider using existing international standards as an example. Summary Report 8

12 IAS Legislation and Regulations TOP THREE KEY ACTIONS 1. Assess the national political agenda and engage politicians to raise awareness of the IAS issue in Canada to influence regulatory decision-making. 2. Develop a regulatory enforcement and implementation framework that includes information about increasing regulatory capacity, web-based tools for information sharing and authority agreements between the different agencies to determine regulatory responsibility. 3. Complete a multi-layered, gap analysis to determine what legislation and regulations are still needed to assist in the fight against IAS and update on a regular basis. OTHER 4. Conduct more research into the socio-economic impacts of IAS. 5. Use other international legislation as an example/tool for developing new legislation/ regulations and focus on coordinated legislation across the province. 6. Conduct multi-sector and public consultation when developing new legislation/ regulations. Include aboriginal groups, sectors-trade, conservation groups etc. 7. Develop pathway-based legislation. 8. Develop emergency/streamlined regulatory tools (include exemption provisions). IAS Funding TOP THREE KEY ACTIONS 1. Dedicate long-term funding to IAS education and management. 2. Continue to provide funding to existing IAS programs, including government programs and non-profit organizations. 3. Invest in national, provincial and territorial invasive species councils. OTHER 4. Re-establish and fund the Invasive Alien Species Partnership Program (IASPP) and support more projects that link IAS to climate change and endangered species. 5. Establish new, and improve, funding mechanisms. - Examples of potential existing mechanisms include Growing Forward, Federal Gas Tax Fund, the Green Municipal fund, and the Environmental Damages Fund. 6. Develop legislation that would allow the government to charge companies responsible for introducing invasive species into Canada (e.g. through shipping). The money collected from this could be used to fund invasive species projects, etc. 7. Create/support access to non-traditional funds i.e. tourism, ecological development, crowdfunding. 8. Complete an economic impact assessment, to evaluate the true costs of IAS on the economy. This would be used to support funding needs. 9. Develop a rapid response fund. 9 National IAS Workshop

13 IAS Research TOP THREE KEY ACTIONS 1. Develop an online clearing house of existing IAS research (risk assessments, control and management techniques, species impacts, etc.) with open access for everyone. Include scientific and traditional knowledge based research. 2. Formalize a network of national and international experts to ensure research is still being conducted on this issue. 3. Develop/enhance IAS related tools: rapid response, control and risk assessment tools. OTHER 4. Conduct a gap analysis of current research on IAS to determine what research is still needed (e.g. research on the impacts of climate change on IAS). 5. Develop useful IAS models to assist with predicting their spread, taking an epidemiological approach. 6. Undertake socio-economic research related to the impact of IAS. 7. Develop long-term IAS community monitoring programs. 8. Develop/maintain an evaluation program for all areas of research. 9. Maintain a critical level of experts. - I.e. taxonomic experts to ensure expertise is not lost moving forward. 10. Translate scientific research of IAS impacts etc. into plain language for policy makers and the public. Session Two: Explore opportunities to enhance nation-wide coordination and collaboration of Education/Outreach, and develop strategic partnerships to address IAS For session two, workshop participants were again broken into six groups, to further identify top priority actions for coordination, collaboration, strategic partnerships and education and awareness by Coordination, collaboration and strategic partnerships TOP THREE KEY ACTIONS 1. Ensure federal, provincial and territorial governments identify clear mandates for coordination, collaboration and strategic partnerships and then: - Draft model IAS legislation and regulations for provinces/territories to follow. - Work with national partner to develop a North American IAS Strategy that outlines how, and encourages, provinces and territories to begin developing their own strategy. 2. Work with CCIS to ensure provincial and territorial councils are in place across Canada. 3. Increase funding for invasive species partnerships including re-establishing the Invasive Alien Species Partnership Program (IASPP). Summary Report 10

14 OTHER 4. Hold an annual multi-stakeholder forum to update stakeholders and partners on IAS actions 5. Establish and provide national funding for IAS management, coordination and research. 6. Utilize technology, like webinar programs and list services to: - Coordinate IAS action - Share emerging and important information 7. Support and utilize citizen scientists to support IAS monitoring and management. 8. Establish a network of key partners beyond provinces/territories to increase collaboration on invasive species in Canada 9. Formalize specific partnerships to work together to address the issue of IAS - Establish long-term goals with them and identify non-traditional partnerships. 2. Education and Awareness TOP THREE KEY ACTIONS 1. Create a National Communications Strategy and related resources. - Include posters, advertisements, etc. that can be shared and used amongst all provinces and territories to facilitate consistent messaging. - Utilize social media opportunities to increase awareness. - Develop and implement a National Invasive Species Awareness Week. 2. Develop a central clearing house of all IAS related educational resources. 3. Create pathway-based education programs. - Target those groups who are involved in related pathways (e.g. horticulture industry, outdoor enthusiasts, and natural environment colleges). OTHER 4. Provide education and awareness initiatives for political leaders. 5. Create a national Aboriginal Communication and Education Campaign. 6. Provide information and resources at borders for border staff and the public. 7. Measure the impact of education and awareness to determine if behaviour is changing. 8. Develop IAS curriculum programs for high schools colleges and universities. 11 National IAS Workshop

15 Top Priority Areas for Immediate Action At the end of the day, participants were given the opportunity to rank the key themes that were discussed during each session, to determine what the top priority areas for immediate action are. The results are as follows: Top Priority Areas for Immediate Action 1. Interjurisdictional Coordination and Funding 2. Education and Awareness 3. Emergency Response, Operations and Pathways 4. Coordination, Collaboration and Strategic Partnerships Although participants weren t asked to rank individual actions, other specific priority actions that repeated themselves above included: 5. Development of a rapid response fund 6. Permanent establishment of the IAS Task Force 7. Expanding the role of the Canadian Council on Invasive Species 8. Creating and maintaining a network of experts 9. Conducting research to help understand the true socio-economic impact of IAS MOVING FORWARD At the end of the workshop, Ala Boyd and Robert McLean thanked everyone on behalf of the IAS Task Force for their participation. The IAS Task Force is committed to taking into account the findings from the workshop when they report back to the Ministers responsible for Conservation, Wildlife and Biodiversity at their next meeting (possibly in Fall 2016). There was a brief discussion to identify key next steps from the workshop, including what communication is needed, by who and when. A workshop summary report will be shared with workshop participants and will also be sent to a larger group of stakeholders. Everyone was invited to share the report within their own network. The main takeaway from this discussion was that related IAS groups and organizations are encouraged to move forward on actions that pertain to them. Many participants began to identify what they would begin to do in their province/territory. Although for many who attended the workshop, the issue of IAS is extremely daunting and challenging, the feedback from participants and the ideas and enthusiasm that were generated is extremely encouraging. Several participants indicated that there is now a renewed excitement and positivity that this issue can be tackled. Participants are eager to share this information with their partners and are dedicated to implementing actions when and where they can, along with a commitment to work in partnership with other national, provincial and regional organizations. Summary Report 12

16 APPENDIX 1. PARTICIPANTS Name Organization Name Organization Ahdia Hassan Saskatchewan Ministry of the Environment Kelly Torck Environment and Climate Change Canada Ala Boyd Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry Louis McCann Pet Industry Joint Advisory Council of Canada Alison Kirkpatrick Anthony Hopkin Barry Gibbs Bob McLean Brian Makowecki Bruno Paris (EC) Carolyn Callaghan Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters Natural Resources Canada Alberta Invasive Species Council Environment and Climate Change Canada Alberta Environment and Parks Environment and Climate Change Canada Canadian Wildlife Federation Megan MacIntosh Megan Meaney Mike Rosen Patrick Henry Patrick Zimmer Paula Noel Peter Jeffrey Nature Canada ICLEI Canada Tree Canada NatureServe Canada Canadian Wildlife Health Cooperative New Brunswick Invasive Species Council Canadian Federation of Agriculture Channa S. Perera Christine Villegas David Jones Denis Rousseau Dr. Anissa Lybaert Dr. Brian Heise Dr. Burton Ayles Dr. David Browne Dr. Elke Meyfarth Francine MacDonald Gail Wallin Helen Gerson Helene Godmaire Iola Price Isobel Heathcote Canadian Electricity Association Canadian Food Inspection Agency Canadian Horticultural Association Canada Wood Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada Thomson Rivers University Fisheries Joint Management Committee Canadian Wildlife Federation Nature Conservancy Canada Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry Facilitator Canada Border Services Agency Quebec Invasive Species Council Ontario Invasive Plant Council Consultant Rebecca Lee Rosemary Curley Shauna Lehmann Tracey Cooke Tracy Kerluke Val Miller Valérie Aubin Sylvia D Amelia Christine Loth-Bown Phone Participants Jon Lefrink Kyla Maslaniec North American Plant Protection Organization Prince Edward Island Invasive Species Council Saskatchewan Invasive Species Council Invasive Species Centre Fisheries and Oceans Canada British Columbia Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operation Stratégies Saint-Laurent Trout Unlimited Canada Fisheries and Oceans Canada Manitoba Conservation and Water Stewardship Manitoba Conservation and Water Stewardship Jim Brennan Jodi Romyn Kathryn Collet Kellie Sherman Ducks Unlimited Canada Invasive Species Council of British Columbia New Brunswick Natural Resources Ontario Invasive Plant Council Bobbi Rees Matt Fredlund Justin Shead Newfoundland and Labrador Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture Nunavut Department of Environment Manitoba Conservation and Water Stewardship 13 National IAS Workshop

17 APPENDIX 2. INVASIVE ALIEN SPECIES STRATEGY - PRESENTATION Summary Report 14

18 APPENDIX 2. INVASIVE ALIEN SPECIES STRATEGY - PRESENTATION 15 National IAS Workshop

19 APPENDIX 3. NATIONAL IAS TASK FORCE - PRIORITIES Summary Input on Key National Priorities for Invasive Alien Species Management Invasive Alien Species Task Force Members Background The Invasive Alien Species (IAS) Task Force was established in 2015 by federal, provincial and territorial Conservation, Wildlife and Biodiversity Ministers to support collaborative efforts to fight against invasive species in Canada, guided by the strategic goals of the Invasive Alien Species Strategy for Canada. The Task Force is comprised of representatives from federal, provincial, and territorial governments. Its mandate is to identify key gaps, priority actions and best practices, as well as opportunities for strengthening the national policy framework and improving leadership, coordination and collaboration and development of strategic partnerships. As part of that effort, interviews were conducted with IAS Task Force members in late 2015 to determine their priorities for actions that are national in scope; relevant and beneficial to more than one jurisdiction; strengthen the IAS policy framework in Canada; encourage collaboration; and are cost effective and sustainable over the long term. The work of the IAS Task Force is intended to build on existing efforts in the fight against IAS. The key actions and priorities identified in the IAS Strategy remain valid, and the IAS Task Force recognizes that much has been accomplished since its development in Similarly, key actions and priorities identified by other intergovernmental platforms (National Aquatic Invasive Species Committee, Forest Pest Working Group) remain valid. The focus of the IAS Task Force work has been on identifyin the gaps and opportunities on cross-cutting / horizontal issues. Results The results reflect a broad range of comments across a range of perspectives and priorities. Participants were optimistic, creative, and supportive of collaborative efforts to prevent, manage, and control invasive alien species. Priority Actions The following were the most frequently cited priority actions, in decreasing order of occurrence: Legislation and regulations: regulate organisms in trade; consistent legislation and regulations; model rules National public education campaign: consistent messaging; national communications strategy; national coordination Enhance and stabilize funding: stable, equitable, accessible funding; restore IAS Partnership Program Establish an inter-jurisdictional coordination mechanism: clarify roles and responsibilities; national coordination and response framework Develop systems and networks for rapid decision-making, communication, and emergency response: create decision-support tools; clarify roles and responsibilities Summary Report 16

20 APPENDIX 3. NATIONAL IAS TASK FORCE - PRIORITIES National IAS Database: information on species ranges and control efforts; Best Management Practices (BMPs) Increase risk assessment (RA) capacity: share RAs; find new ways to work together; strengthen capacity for socio-economic RA Prioritise pathways according to risk; develop/ implement plans for managing high-risk pathways: collaborate; hold national meetings on key pathways; pathway pilots Increase capacity for inspections and enforcement at Canada s borders: empower CBSA to be first line of defense; cross-border information sharing Conduct/support research on treatment methods and technologies: species response to treatment methods; develop and register additional pesticides Additional priority actions identified in the interviews included: strengthened international cooperation; a coordinated public monitoring network; the need for a national core capacity of diagnostic and taxonomic expertise; the need for research to develop new diagnostic tools and tools to predict invasiveness; surveillance in high-risk areas; risk assessment to prioritize and identify options for managing IAS; and restoration plans for vulnerable ecosystems. Opportunities The most frequently cited opportunities were: Build on existing networks and programs Take advantage of high public interest/awareness Amend existing laws to include IAS Create a national research network Link to non-traditional priorities such as climate change, species at risk, and biofuels Use social marketing to change behaviours Use new technology, for example environmental DNA, information technology, web crawlers Try innovative funding approaches, for example boat stickers, or a fuel surcharge Work more closely with Aboriginal Peoples Partnerships Members suggested a variety of mechanisms to strengthen national partnerships: Enhance/strengthen the Canadian Council on Invasive Species and regional/p/t Invasive Species Councils Enhance/improve collaboration/coordination mechanisms Create a national research partnership or network Create an IAS Federal-Provincial-Territorial Committee Create a national alert system More engagement of Aboriginal Peoples 17 National IAS Workshop

21 APPENDIX 3. NATIONAL IAS TASK FORCE - PRIORITIES Conclusion The interviews reflected a great deal of optimism, energy, and interest in mutual support, especially enhanced co-ordination at the national level. The results revealed many linked issues and potential solutions (e.g., pathways, species in trade, border controls), and therefore opportunities to achieve broad impact with a relatively small number of actions. Summary Report 18

22 APPENDIX 4. CCIS - SUMMARY OF KEY PRIORITIES Input on National Key Priorities and Partnerships As of February 15, 2016 Background: Established in 2012, the Canadian Council on Invasive Species brings together Invasive species councils, committees, provincial governments and coalitions representing the majority of provinces and territories in Canada. This national organization was formed as a result of a joint Canada wide meeting in 2009 along with a key recommendation from the 2012 National Invasive Species Forum to establish a national voice to share and coordinate knowledge across Canadian borders, as invasive species know no boundaries. What we do: The Canadian Council on Invasive Species (CCIS) works collaboratively across jurisdictional boundaries to support actions and information that can help reduce the threat and impacts of invasive species. Invasive species groups work in partnership to build upon lessons learned in each province/ territory to improve public awareness of invasive alien species. Detecting emerging invasive species early is integral to prevention, as once established, they spread rapidly, causing damage to the environment, economy, and/or human health. Priority Actions for 2020 and Beyond: Coordinated actions and secure resources are vital to enable timely and effective responses to invasive species. Coordination is required across all jurisdictions while recognizing that each level of government has distinct regulatory responsibilities and private sector also plays a critical role for success. Diverse financial resources are required from all levels of governments and private sources, especially those involved with pathways of spread. 1. Strengthen Leadership and Coordination a. Build a much stronger network within Canada and beyond: - Support work with Canadian Council on Invasive Species to ensure linkages exist beyond F/P/T - Ensure effective regular national meetings as a tool to improving collaboration b. Have a main single point of contact within federal government and each province/territory for invasive species: - Ensure centralized lead agency to coordinate and respond to high risk invasive species - Increase coordinated and cooperation information flow across all governments and private c. Ensure review and monitor progress against Alien Invasive Species Strategy for Canada: - Identify clear roles and responsibilities for federal/provincial/territory governments - Have clear defined strategies with specified roles/responsibilities for all agencies, timelines - Establish, implement and monitor progress against clear Action Plans, linked the Strategy for Canada - Establish F/P/T/private task force to address pathways such as horticulture, pet and aquarium d. Establish a North American Invasive Species Agreement/Framework/Accord to share information and build cross border coordination on prevention and emerging issues 2. Establish and Enforce Regulatory Tools a. Close pathways of introduction for incoming transport or trade across borders CANADIAN COUNCIL ON INVASIVE SPECIES c/o # North 2nd Avenue, Williams Lake, BC V2G 1Z info@canadainvasives.ca Conseil Canadien sur les Espèces Envahissantes 19 National IAS Workshop

23 APPENDIX 4. CCIS - SUMMARY OF KEY PRIORITIES b. Develop and enforce regulatory tools to prevent selling/trading/moving of invasive species c. Streamline regulatory tool review to enable more timely approval of proven pesticides and biocontrol tools, including herbicides for use in and near water, add EDRR application techniques and targeted species to labels 3. Ensure Effective Emergency Response to High Risk Species a. Ensure prevent and effectively responses to new invasive species potentially entering Canada b. Develop/strengthen a coordinated federal risk management process c. Conduct thorough risk assessments and risk management plans 4. Ensure Effective Management a. Determine priority habitat or geographic areas for protection from invasive species b. Improve prevention and early detection by formalizing alliances between research and industry c. Establish long term monitoring to determine impacts of invasive species and relation with climate change d. Establish an open source data base to be accessed, updated by authorized partners i.e. F/P/T and others 5. Increase Financial Resources a. Increase financial resources within the federal government to ensure implementation of the updated Alien Invasive Species Strategy of Canada b. Ensure federal resources for supporting/enforcing national regulations to early invaders to Canada - Recognize invasive species as a conservation issue equivalent to species at risk c. Increase long term funding to provincial/territory non-government organizations on invasive species d. Provide resources for partnership work in stopping high risk species (i.e. Invasive Alien Partnership Program) e. Establish national trust fund for immediate response to high risk invasive species to Canada or a region 6. Increase Effective Education and Extension a. Develop and implement an extensive national education and awareness campaign on invasive species b. Establish and support a National Invasive Species Week or Month c. Support use nation-wide outreach campaigns for invasive species d. Support a central hub of information linking government and non-government resources e. Support and link to a national Spotter s program aimed at engaging more Canadians 7. Increase Research and Ensure Linkage to Practices a. Conduct long-term research on impacts of pesticides to the environment b. Conduct long-term research on effectiveness of biocontrol agents after release. c. Conduct research on landscapes disturbance impacting distribution or persistence of invasives d. Current research on social, economic and environmental impacts of invasive species to Canada Opportunities 1. LEADERSHIP within Canada and beyond a. Ensure strong vertical flow across Council of Ministers and horizontally across provinces, councils and other stakeholders. b. Facilitate the North American Invasive Species Framework to build stronger bridges for prevention c. Expand partnerships with Canadian Council on Invasive Species, others to increase collaboration 2. REGULATORY TOOLS NEEDED a. Ensure that federal and provincial regulatory tools are in place b. Ensure clear responsibilities for responding to new invasive species in one region of Canada Summary Report 20

24 APPENDIX 4. CCIS - SUMMARY OF KEY PRIORITIES 3. RESEARCH: a. Increase research on economic and ecological impacts and key pathways for invasive species b. Ensure extension or outreach of research to decision makers and planners at all level 4. EDUCATION: a. Support national campaigns for public awareness and roles in preventing spread of invasive species b. Harness energy and support from key partners such as aboriginal, stewardship and outdoor groups Partnerships & Collaboration 1. Facilitate North American Invasive Species Framework 2. Develop shared protocols for pathways and emergency responses across Canada and North America 3. Partner with Canadian Council on Invasive Species for education and information 4. Support establishment of national website linking governments and private information 5. Establish centralized database including links to United States 6. Support bi-annual National Forum and national level Bulletin or listserve 7. Re-invest in partnership programs aligned to national campaigns and priorities (i.e. IASPP) 21 National IAS Workshop

25 APPENDIX 5. NATIONAL IAS TASK FORCE - PRESENTATION Summary Report 22

26 APPENDIX 5. NATIONAL IAS TASK FORCE - PRESENTATION 23 National IAS Workshop

27 APPENDIX 5. NATIONAL IAS TASK FORCE - PRESENTATION Summary Report 24

28 APPENDIX 6. CANADIAN COUNCIL ON INVASIVE SPECIES PRESENTATION Conseil Canadien sur les Espèces Envahissantes 25 National IAS Workshop

29 APPENDIX 6. CANADIAN COUNCIL ON INVASIVE SPECIES PRESENTATION Summary Report 26

30 APPENDIX 6. CANADIAN COUNCIL ON INVASIVE SPECIES PRESENTATION Conseil Canadien sur les Espèces Envahissantes 27 National IAS Workshop