This annual campaign urges Canadians to thoroughly inspect trees and plants in their backyards, gardens, parks, and vehicles for invasive pests.

In August, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) urges Canadians to participate in Tree Check Month by inspecting their own backyard for invasive pests. Trees and plants play a crucial role in preserving Canada’s clean air, natural landscapes, parks, gardens, and economy. However, certain invasive insects, diseases, and organisms pose a threat to the health of Canada’s trees and plants.

Here’s what you can do:

Take time to inspect local parks, gardens, backyards, and vehicles for any unwelcome pests. If you suspect you have come across an invasive plant, insect, disease, snail, or other plant pest not native to the area, contact the CFIA promptly. You can do so by filling out a report on their website:

https://inspection.canada.ca/en/plant-health/invasive-species/stop-spread

Maybe you’re not sure what you’ve found is invasive or not? Citizen science tools like iNaturalist are a great means for logging observations with millions of users across the world to help flag new and exotic species.

This summer, you can also help prevent the spread of pests by refraining from moving firewood; opt to purchase and burn locally sourced or kiln-dried firewood. When traveling abroad, ensure to inspect your vehicles and equipment for accidental hitchhikers which can include insects, egg masses, plants, or soil that can contain pathogens or seeds.

For more information on tree check moth and how to get more involved, visit the CFIA’s website: Click here.