How important are plants really? More than you might think.
Healthy plants are fundamental for the existence and well-being of both humans and animals. They also stabilize the environment and maintain the balance of ecosystems, while fostering economic growth. On May 12, 2025, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) encourages Canadians to mark the International Day of Plant Health by learning more about the role and risks to plant health. This year's theme, 'The importance of plant health in One Health,' highlights the connections between human, animal, and plant health and emphasizes how they are all part of a single, integrated system.
Plant pests pose significant risks to this balance. They attack Canada's crops, forests, the environment and other natural resources. Invasive insects and plants, plant diseases, snails, and other organisms can disrupt ecosystems and damage critical economic activities such as food production, horticulture, and forestry. These pests often spread through cargo transport, human activities such as moving firewood, and extreme weather events that can carry them over great distances.
The CFIA works with industries, stakeholders, and governments to reduce threats by using risk assessments, surveys, and inspections to prevent invasive species from spreading across Canada.
Each of us has a role in protecting plant health. Here are some of the ways you can help prevent the spread of invasive species:
- Learn about invasive species in your area and how to recognize them.
- Don't bring plants, seeds or plant products into Canada without declaring them to border officials, when coming back in the country.
- Don't move firewood; always buy and burn local wood or choose heat-treated firewood.
- Inspect and clean outdoor gear, vehicles, or equipment (such as boats, ATVs, RVs, camping gear, or lawn mowers) before moving them to new areas.
- Report any suspicious plant pests. You can do so online or by contacting your local CFIA office.
By working together, we can help protect our plants, animals, and environment.
