Press Release
The “Hit Squad” has hit the ground running once again.
For the sixth-straight year, a crew of summer students fanned out across the province to spread awareness about the devastating impact invasive species are having on our valuable natural resources.
One member of the squad, Rylee Nixon, is stationed here in Fort Frances.
Nixon is working with the South Kenora-Rainy River Stewardship Council and the Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters as an Invasive Species Outreach Liaison through the O.F.A.H./MNR Invading Species Awareness Program.
She is promoting the prevention and control of invasive species, and her efforts will be focused in Rainy River District.
Throughout the summer, Nixon has attended community events, such as the Fort Frances Canadian Bass Championship and recent Rainy River Valley Agricultural Society’s annual fall fair in Emo, as well as giving presentations to groups such as the Rainy River Valley Field Naturalists and the Fort Frances Sportsmen’s Club.
To report a sighting of an invasive species, or request information or informative materials, call the O.F.A.H./MNR Invading Species Hotline at 1-800-563-7711.
“I’m really looking forward to getting the word out about invasive species in the Fort Frances area,” said Nixon.
“This is a terrific summer experience,” she added. “I am getting the opportunity to speak to a variety of community groups and to share my knowledge of invading species here in the Rainy River District while, at the same time, I am on the lookout for new invaders.”
The Invading Species Awareness Program, the largest of its kind in Canada, uses public education and awareness to prevent the introduction of new invasive species—and to stop the spread of those already here.
Over the course of the summer, the “Hit Squad” will monitor more than 200 local lakes, rivers, streams, and wetlands looking for zebra mussels, spiny water flea, round goby, and other aquatic invaders.
It also will contribute to a variety of efforts to control the spread of invaders to inland waters.
As well, the crew will be on the lookout for potential invaders that threaten the future health of our forests.
The program employs university and college students to man the “Hit Squad” through funding provided by the MNR and the federal government’s Canada Summer Jobs program.
Conservation authorities, stewardship councils, and other community groups also are providing assistance.
