Assessing the Introduction and Age of the Acer platanoides (Norway Maple) invasion within Wilket Creek ravine in Toronto, Ontario.

Abstract

After over a century of disturbance the property that encompasses the Toronto Botanical Garden and the Wilket Creek ravine in Toronto, Ontario has fallen victim to the invasive Norway maple (Acer platanoides). The objectives of this study were to improve the overall knowledge of Norway maple invasions within the Wilket Creek ravine, to determine when and where Norway maples were introduced in the study area, and to improve the overall understanding of Norway maple age dynamics within the property. The results show that Norway maple was introduced into the Wilket Creek ravine in the 1940s and 50% of the sampled Norway maple within the study were established between 1980s and 2000s (18 and 40 years old). The results also show that Norway maple regeneration is present in almost all wooded areas. To control Norway maple, it is recommended to implement an intensive management plan that includes mechanical and chemical control methods, strict invasive species policy, and the development of public education and outreach programs to halt the regeneration and growth of the invasive tree species.