One of the biggest threats facing our forests, particularly urban forests, is the increasing prevalence of non native, invasive species competing with native species for critical resources such as water and space. When the invasive species have aggressive growing habits, they have the potential to take  over entire woodlots and prevent the natural forest succession to occur.

An example of an invasive species all too common in Ottawa is European buckthorn. This shrub/small tree has taken over many of the urban woodlots and often grows with ash which has been in decline as a result of the Emerald Ash Borer. We provide advice and can prepare strategies on how to manage for some of the key invasive species impacting your area.