Canadian plant health information system (CPHIS)
Collaborate online with other members in the plant health community to share and access the latest science and data to help make informed, evidence-based decisions about threats that affect Canada's plant-based resources.
The intent of CPHIS is to assist in the protection of Canadian natural resources from pests, diseases, or other risks, all while preventing millions of dollars of economic impacts associated with infestations.
How to become a member
This application is currently accessible to federal, provincial and territorial authorities who have agreed to the terms of use. Access to certain parts of the platform requires the signing of information sharing arrangements.
We will be expanding in phases to include local governments and non-government organizations. If your organization is interested in onboarding, reach out using the contact us information below.
The onboarding process includes selecting 1 to 2 key members from your organization to take on specific roles related to registering your members and if applicable, contributing data. We will deliver a one-hour training session to selected key members, ensuring they are well-acquainted with tasks that can be managed efficiently without significantly impacting their existing workload.
Why you should join
Biosecurity risk analysis
Access or help develop data analytics tools built with CFIA, open-source and partner contributed data to make informed, evidence-based decisions on current and emerging plant pests across CanadaFootnote 1.
Expertise mapping
Search for specific plant health capabilities based on location, laboratory testing services and plant health expertise. Access contact information to initiate collaboration with CPHIS partners.
Collaboration
Connect with other CPHIS partners in a secure online platform. Post messages, hold discussions, and edit files collaboratively.
Environmental scanning
Analyze and monitor emerging risks for plant health, by scanning sources of information from around the world.
History and evolution of CPHIS
Pan-Canadian collaboration
Launched in 2024, the objective of CPHIS aims to provide a Canada-wide system that connects plant health experts from all levels of government, research institutions, laboratories, and industry.
CPHIS strengthens the ability of plant health authorities across the country to better anticipate, detect, collaborate, and respond to plant health risks by sharing relevant information.
Background
In 2017, the Plant and Animal Health Strategy for Canada was endorsed by Federal/Provincial/Territorial Ministers of Agriculture, recognizing an opportunity for Canada to improve collaboration on plant protection. The Strategy laid out common priorities and a path forward, including the following objectives:
- Objective 1: Canada has the necessary information and awareness needed to support forward-looking risk management and evidence-based decisions.
- Objective 2: Canada has a comprehensive, effective, and integrated system that prevents and proactively addresses plant and animal health risks.
In 2022, the Council of Canadian Academies released Cultivating Diversity: The Expert Panel on Plant Health Risks in Canada (PDF). Commissioned by the CFIA, the report highlights key current and emerging risks to plant health in Canada. It emphasizes the need for better coordination and information sharing among stakeholders, noting that these are essential for effective risk assessment and management. The creation of the CPHIS platform which leverages the past Canadian Food Safety Information Network (CFSIN) investment is intended to resolve that gap.
Contact us
For more information, you can contact us at CFIA.CPHIS-SCISV.ACIA@inspection.gc.ca.