RIDEAU VALLEY, October 15, 2026 – The Rideau Valley Conservation Authority (RVCA) is giving the boot to invasive species with the installation of 12 new boot brushing stations across its 11 public conservation areas. Supported by the Invasive Species Action Fund, this initiative offers visitors an easy way to help stop the spread of invasive plants while enjoying the trails and natural areas they love.
With approximately 343,000 visitors annually, RVCA’s conservation areas are popular destinations for hiking, nature appreciation and outdoor recreation – but people and pets can carry near-invisible invasive seeds on their paws and shoes, which can take root in these special places.
“Invasive species are one of the most significant threats to the health of our natural areas,” said Adrienne Lewis, RVCA Conservation Lands Technician. “Seeds and plant fragments can easily hitch a ride on footwear without people even realizing it. These boot brushing stations make it easy for visitors to take a small action that helps protect entire ecosystems.”
The new boot brushing stations will be installed at high-traffic access points across RVCA conservation areas, giving visitors an easy way to remove soil and plant material from their footwear before continuing their adventure or visiting another natural area.
“We hope our visitors will be part of the solution,” said Ms. Lewis. “Stewardship doesn’t have to be complicated – something as simple as brushing your boots can make a real difference.”
Thanks to an investment from the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources, the Invasive Species Centre is supporting 112 projects in 2026/27 across Ontario led by municipalities, Indigenous organizations, conservation authorities, community groups, and non-profit organizations to address critical invasive species issues.
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For more information:
Adrienne Lewis, RVCA Conservation Lands Technician
613-692-3571 or 1-800-267-3504 ext. 1157
