Invasive non-native plants pose a constant threat to the forest of the West Hylebos Wetlands. While the park's second growth conifer forest
is a largely healthy native forest, invasive plants from surrounding suburbia are transplanted in by birds and mammals (and yes, on the shoes and pantlegs of visitors). When trees fall due to windthrow or flooding it opens gaps in the forest canopy where sunlight can get in.

These open areas, with increased sunlight, are ideal places for invasive weeds to get a foothold in the forest. Left unchecked, invasive weeds like Himalayan blackberry, Enghlish ivy and bitter nightshade can damage and ultimately kill native plants and trees, spreading as they create more canopy gaps. Invasive weeds are also prevalent at the edge of the forest on the park's boundary.

The Friends of the Hylebos surveys the park to identify where invasive weeds are growing. We use restoration crews and volunteers to  remove the weeds. Native trees and shrubs are planted in gap areas to replace fallen trees.

Since it can take years for a tree to grow tall enough to shade out invasive weeds, annual surveys and maintenance are vital to ensuring newly planted trees can survive. Preventing invasive plants from getting established in the park is a critical step in protecting the West Hylebos Wetlands' forest health.