This summer, I joined the Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters (OFAH) on Lake Simcoe to see firsthand the spread of water soldier, an invasive plant with razor-sharp leaves that chokes native species, harms fish, and blocks recreation.
First detected in Cook’s Bay in 2024, the infestation is growing. OFAH has proven that early action works, but large-scale treatment is costly—and the federal Liberal government has failed to act.
I am working with my Conservative colleagues to demand renewed federal support for Lake Simcoe. Read my petition below and add you voice.
I will be presenting this petition in the House of Commons this fall.
Petition to the Government of Canada
We, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the Government of Canada to the following:
Whereas
- The invasive aquatic plant species water soldier (Stratiotes aloides) was discovered in Lake Simcoe in the area of Cook’s Bay in August 2024 and its presence was confirmed by the Water Soldier Working Group, which group comprises federal and provincial government agencies, local municipalities, conservation authorities, First Nations, academic institutions, and non-governmental organizations dedicated to preventing the spread of water soldier and managing existing populations;
- Water soldier is a physical threat to human health and the recreational enjoyment of Lake Simcoe because of its sharp serrated leaves and dense growth mats;
- Water soldier is a threat to native plants, fishes, and animals because it chokes off native plants, crowds out native habitats, and alters water chemistry;
- Water soldier is a threat to local agriculture because of its connection and proximity to the Holland River, which is an important water source for agricultural operations; and
- Effective remediation measures exist to stop the spread of water soldier and manage existing populations, such as physical removal and herbicidal treatments.
Therefore
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call on the Government of Canada to:
- List or otherwise identify water soldier as an invasive aquatic plant species under relevant federal law;
- Nominate a single federal department or agency to take responsibility for federal efforts to stop the spread and manage existing populations of water soldier, including by representing federal interests to the Water Soldier Working Group; and
- Allocate sufficient financial and technical support to the Water Soldier Working Group or its group members to research, monitor, remove, and manage water soldier populations in Lake Simcoe and other bodies of water in Ontario.
