Submitted by Sammy on Jun, 23
Invasive Species- Buckthorn
An invasive species native to Asia and Europe, buckthorn was planted in the 1800s to separate farm properties from one another. The Riverwood Conservancy is located on land once used as farmland and was donated by the MacEwan family.
How is this object or story important to you?
Knowing about the different plants in your area connects you to the environment, which is important when considering the ecological future of Toronto and the GTA. 38% of Southern Ontario's species are non-native, and 1-2% of these species become invasive. It is important to be aware of what species are invasive so that we can do what we can in little ways to curb the spread of these invasive species.
What does it add to the story of Toronto?
Invasive species were usually introduced for a specific purpose or use, which ties into the history of the area. They provide scope into why our natural landscape is the way it is, and how it is changing. Additionally, invasives love disturbed places.Therefore, a large urban centre like Toronto is host to many invasive species.