Invasive pests can travel when you do. Moving insect pests to new areas allows them to spread and infest new areas. This can destroy forests, crops and gardens and cause serious damage to Canada's environment and economy. Don't let these sneaky invaders hitch a ride with you!
A simple inspection before driving is your ticket to enjoy worry-free travels that help protect Canada's forests, agriculture and the environment.
Before you hit the road, inspect your RV, camper or trailer
Pests love to hide and lay eggs in hard-to-reach spots. Check the following areas for soil, plant debris and any signs of insect pests, including egg masses:
- Wheel wells
- Door handles
- Windshield wipers
- Mirrors
- Battery boxes and power cords
- Roof racks
- Bike racks
- Folding camp furniture
Remember not to move firewood with you – buy local, burn local.
Get a closer look at the CFIA's top tips to keep your RV pest-free this summer:
Travel smart: The CFIA's top tips to keep your RV pest-free this summer – Transcript
So what's all the buzz about?
Invasive species are pests that can damage our forests, industries, food supply and even our own backyards.
I'm inspector Naima Ait and I am going to tell you how you can do your part to stop the invasion.
Just one example of an invasive species or pest is the Emerald Ash Borer. It has killed millions of trees since it was introduced to Canada in 2002.
These pests are not natural to Canada. They travel here by hiding in places like shipping containers, vehicles or untreated wood. They can also travel on infested firewood that is moved by people across large areas.
Keeping our forests, farms, and cities free from these invasive pests is something we all need to do together. So what can you do to help?
Let's say you are headed on a road trip out west or returning from camping in the US.
You may not realize that these pests are hiding or have even laid eggs in your RV, trailer, camper or boat.
They sometimes hide out in camping equipment left outdoors such as folding chairs or tarp.
Pests like to hide their eggs in crevices and somewhat sheltered areas on your vehicle or trailer.
To make sure you are not moving these pests all you have to remember is to Stop – look – and clean before you Roll
Let me show you how in three easy steps.
Step 1: Look at your RV, trailer and other equipment
- Check the wheel wells
- Door handles
- Around the windshield wipers
- Windshield wiper bay (where the windshield connects with the car under the hood)
- Mirrors
- Attachments (spare tire, bike carriers, roof racks, propane tank, battery holder, etc.)
Step 2: Clean it off
- It's always a good idea to wash the exterior of your RV/trailer before heading on a trip. It should be free of soil, plant debris and pests
- Most importantly, never bring live insects to a new area – leave them behind
- If you see any bugs, larvae or egg masses, remove them
- Egg masses, larvae and adult pests can be killed by soaking in soapy water or alcohol
- Larvae and adult pests can also be killed by squishing
Step 3: Before you roll, remember to be prepared
- Familiarize yourself with the insects in your area. If it's new to the area you are in or you think you've come across an invasive species, report it to us at the CFIA
Another crucial step in preventing the spread of invasive species is to avoid transporting firewood from one location to another.
Invasive species like the emerald ash borer and the Asian longhorned beetle can travel unnoticed in firewood.
Once introduced to new areas, they can rapidly spread, decimating local flora .
So, this summer, we remind you to buy your firewood locally!
Everyone has a role to play in protecting Canada's trees and plants for a stronger economy, healthier environment and overall wellbeing.
Safe travels!
What to do if you find something
- Familiarize yourself with invasive pests, particularly:
- If you spot something you don't recognize, take a picture and report it to the CFIA
- Scrape off egg masses, or manually remove larvae or adults by soaking in soapy water or alcohol
- Most importantly, don't leave until the pests have been removed and destroyed