Invasive Species Action Month (ISAM)

“Do it Yourself.

Stop Invasives Together!”

[Update, April 02: Partner Toolkits and resources will be made available throughout April. Stay Tuned!]

Invasive Species Action Month (ISAM) 2026 is a national campaign hosted every May by Invasives Canada, our Chapter Network, and Youth Eco Stewards. ISAM raises awareness around the impacts of invasive species and empowers people in Canada to take community stewardship into their own hands. 

For 2026, ISAM’s theme is “Do it yourself. Stop invasives together.”, focusing on equipping individuals, youth groups, organizations and communities with the knowledge, tools, and confidence they need to identify and mitigate the impacts of invasive species in their own communities. Everyone can take simple, do-it-yourself steps to prevent and manage invasive species right where they live. The focus is on small, tangible actions that add up to big results. 

Why “DIY” Matters

You don’t need to be a scientist or land manager to make a difference.

Invasive species often spread through everyday activities like hiking, camping, gardening, boating, or just taking your dog for a walk. That means everyone has a role to play in stopping their spread.

ISAM 2026 is all about:

  • Building confidence to take action

  • Sharing practical tools and resources

  • Highlighting simple steps Anyone can take right where they live.

Think of it as backyard science meets local stewardship!

Spread the Word!

Sharing what you learn is the easiest way to take part in ISAM 2026.

Tag and follow the Invasive Canada, or our Chapters for updates and new actions/resources throughout the month:

Instagram: @invasivescanada

Facebook: Invasives Canada

LinkedIn: Invasives Canada

Use the campaign hashtags to be a part of the conversation: #ISAM2026 and/or #DIYStopInvasivesTogether

If you’re an organization looking to promote Invasive Species Action Month in your community or region, download our PARTNER TOOLKIT (Coming Soon)

The Partner Toolkit is filled with messaging tips, ideas, and customizable graphics/materials to help you get involved!

 

Take Action All Month Long

Each week in May focuses on a different way you can help prevent and manage invasive species. 

Week 1: “Protect Where You Play”

May 4–8, 2026

When we head outside – whether it’s hiking, biking, camping, or boating – we can unintentionally carry invasive species with us. Seeds, plant fragments, and tiny aquatic plants/animals can hitch a ride unnoticed on our gear, clothing, and equipment. 

This week focuses on simple actions that help prevent invasive species from spreading between outdoor spaces we love to explore.

What You Can Do

  • Follow best practices when you hit the trails or water, no matter what mode of transportation you use (bike, ATV, boating, walking)
  • When you’re camping this summer or traveling to remote areas, make sure you’re not bringing invasives with you on your trip

Become an ISAM partner by using our Social Media Toolkit (Coming Soon)!

 

Week 2: “Plant Wise“

May 8–14, 2026

Our gardens are part of Canada’s ecosystems and they can either support healthy ecosystems, or contribute to the spread of invasive species.

This week is all about making informed, sustainable planting choices that protect biodiversity while creating beautiful, resilient spaces for pollinators, birds, and all wildlife.

What You Can Do

  • Plant for wildlife and turn your garden into a Pollinator Haven!

  • Invasive Plant Swap!

    • Have an invasive species in your backyard? Swap it out this May for a non-invasive option!

      • Use Provincial Grow Me Instead Guides to help inform your plant choices
      • Check out these REGIONAL GUIDES for native options

  • Make sure to dispose of invasive plant matter properly!

    • Use THIS RESOURCE to properly dispose invasive plant matter when removing invasives from your yard or local green space. 

  • Learn more about invasive species in Horticulture by watching our Growing Solutions Conference Recordings

Become an ISAM partner by using our Social Media Toolkit (Coming Soon)!

 

Week 3: “Spot it. Stop it.”

May 15–21, 2026

The earlier invasive species are detected, the easier they are to manage – that’s the core idea behind Early Detection and Rapid Response (EDRR).

This week focuses on building your skills and confidence to recognize invasive species and their impacts, right in your neighbourhood, local park, or favourite outdoor space. Because an aware and vigilant public is one of our best tools for EDRR! 

What You Can Do

  • Learn to identify common invasive species in your region

    • Use our National or our Chapters invasive species profile pages as a place to start!

  • Become a Neighborhood Steward around your community – keeping an eye out for invasive species 

    • This month, make it a habit to go for a walk every day, observing what’s around you

    • Download tools like iNaturalist onto your phone to help identify and share observations

    • Use this RESOURCE if you’re new to using iNaturalist

  • Learn to ID more than just the species, but their impacts too!

    • Check out this RESOURCE for identifying Invasive Wild Pig field signs

  • Stop the Spread at home, recognize what doesn’t belong in the wild

Become an ISAM partner by using our Social Media Toolkit (Coming Soon)!

 

Week 4: “Stopping Invasives Together.” 

May 22–31, 2026

Preventing and managing invasive species is a shared effort. When communities come together, small individual actions become meaningful collective impact.

This week highlights how you can get involved locally, on your own or with a group, and contribute to coordinated action across Canada.

What You Can Do

  • Join a local Bioblitz or host your own backyard bioblitz

  • Lead your own or take part in a local Invasive Species Removal Event
    • Check out this LIBRARY of Best Management Practices (BMPs) for information on properly removing your target invasive species

  • Report invasive species using apps or regional contacts

  • Take the Pledge!

    • Take one (or more) of our PROGRAM PLEDGES to commit to stopping the spread of invasive species

  • Share your actions and encourage others to get involved

 

We’re All in this Together!

Just cause you’re Doing It Yourself, doesn’t mean you’re doing it on your own.

Invasives Canada and our provincial Chapters are her to equip you with the tools you need to confidently take action against invasive species! Together, we can make a difference – one action at a time.

For questions or updates on resources, please email Chris Sullivan at: Chris@invasivescanada.ca

News & Events Categories

Stop The Spread: Report Invasive Species

How to Prevent and Manage Invasive Species

The Impact of Invasive Species on Canada’s Ecosystems and Economy

Invasive Species Resources: Guides, Manuals, and Best Practices