After a long winter and loosened pandemic restrictions, New Brunswickers are undoubtedly happy to enjoy nature again.
But while hiking, fishing or four-wheeling, we must be mindful of some of the invasive species in the province.
Kristin Elton, project coordinator with the New Brunswick Invasive Species Council, says a pesky beetle known as the Emerald Ash Borer and a dangerous plant called Giant Hogweed are a couple examples.
“There are a lot of things that people are doing that can accidentally spread invasive species. Basically anywhere we move we can take them with us,” she notes.
Elton says after hiking, biking or four-wheeling, make sure to clean your boots or tires of any mud and seeds.
On the water, she reminds boaters to clean, drain and dry boats and trailers to ensure critters like zebra mussels don’t hitch a ride.
When having campfires, she says be sure to buy firewood in the same place you burn it.
Elton adds don’t forget about checking your four-legged friends since cats or dogs can also carry pests.
