March 19, 2025
The Invasive Species Centre is excited to announce the launch of a new, three-year initiative in partnership with the National Tree Seed Centre, Forest Gene Conservation Association, and the Ontario Forestry Research Institute with funding and support from the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks. This initiative will raise public awareness about the threats posed by the invasive insect emerald ash borer (EAB) and the importance of preserving genetic and seed diversity in ash species, with a special focus on black ash, a species at risk.
“Every year, Ontario invests in innovative community-based projects that support the protection and recovery of plants and animals at risk,” said Todd McCarthy, Acting Minister of the Environment, Conservation and Parks. “Our government is proud to partner with organizations across the province, like the Invasive Species Centre, to uphold Ontario’s track record of strong environmental stewardship and preserve the rich biodiversity for future generations.”
A potential bumper crop – a significantly larger than usual harvest – of ash seeds, including black ash, is forecast by the summer of 2026 or 2027. The Invasive Species Centre will seize this harvesting opportunity to establish a volunteer Black Ash Community Action Network. This network will map existing black ash trees and collect seeds, which are essential for preserving ash species threatened by EAB. In preparation for the upcoming bumper seed crop, a strong base of volunteers and professionals across Ontario will learn to collect ash seeds through a combination of training, outreach, and workshops – such as the recent session at Science North in Sudbury.
“We are thrilled to engage with the people of Ontario to help protect native ash species,” said Vincent La Tassa, Program Development Coordinator with the ISC. “This project is about collecting seeds to help preserve the genetic diversity of forests and ensure the long-term preservation of species like black ash.”
Recognizing the cultural significance of black ash, the Invasive Species Centre is collaborating with Indigenous communities and organizations across Ontario to listen, learn and provide opportunities to support and complement existing conservation efforts. Attending events such as the Northern Ontario First Nations Environment Conference (NOFNEC) and the Anishinabek Nation Lands & Resources Forum has provided the ISC with opportunities to build relationships, gain insights from Indigenous knowledge holders, and explore ways to work together in preserving ash trees. Additionally, the project will incorporate a ‘Two-Eyed Seeing’ approach to ash tree conservation, considering Indigenous and Western knowledge systems, for the benefit all participants and the work protecting ash trees.
The Invasive Species Centre invites all those eager to stay informed and deepen their understanding of this initiative to follow us on social media for the latest updates, including future workshop schedules and details about our upcoming webinar in April.
Helpful links for community members who want to get involved:
· Join the ‘Ontario Black Ash Inventory’ project and submit black ash observations
· Learn more about emerald ash border by reviewing the species profile
For more details, and to join in safeguarding Ontario’s ash species for future generations, please reach out to the project lead, Vincent La Tassa at vlatassa@invasivespeciescentre.ca.
