Invasive species programs get new funding boost

The B.C. government is investing another $12 million to assist with the detection and removal of invasive species, as part of its economic recovery plan to support jobs and help communities cope with the ongoing impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. “In British Columbia, we’re working to protect our natural environment on a number of fronts,” said Premier John Horgan. “This funding will not only help to control damaging species not native to the province, it will also create jobs for local communities.” The provincial economic recovery plan, StrongerBC, provides employment and economic opportunities to support a wide range of projects throughout the province. The Ministry of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development is responsible for economic recovery programs worth more than $100 million. The new invasive species funding is one component of that overall recovery strategy.