Invasive species are non-native organisms that have been introduced often due to human activities in an environment they do not naturally belong to. These species can significantly disrupt local ecosystems by outcompeting native species for resources, spreading diseases, or causing habitat degradation. Due to their potential to cause severe ecological damage, removing invasive species as soon as possible is crucial.

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Rattray Marsh Conservation Area is a beautiful wetland ecosystem along the Lake Ontario shoreline in Mississauga, made even more special by being the last remaining lakefront marsh between Toronto and Burlington. The conservation area has 5 trails, the longest spanning 1.1 km called the Pedestrian Waterfront Trail. On their hike, nature lovers can soak in the abundant wildlife including deers, herons, beavers, foxes, and more birds than a birdwatcher can count.

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Rattray Marsh Conservation Area is completely owned and managed by Credit Valley Conservation, and they have worked to protect the land since they obtained their first 10 hectares in 1971. The importance of Rattray Marsh has been recognised by organizations as well as the community, as it receives over 300,000 visitors annually. Unfortunately, this area has endured numerous degradation challenges over the years, namely urbanization, climate change, and what we are here to remove, invasive species.