Make a tree-mendous impact this August for Tree Check Month

August is Tree Check Month and the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) is calling on Canadians of all ages to take a few minutes to inspect the trees and plants around them for signs of invasive pests. Look in your yard, garden, local park—or even on your vehicle or outdoor gear. Early detection is key to stopping the spread.

Why it matters

Invasive pests threaten Canada’s agriculture, agri-food, fertilizer, and forestry sectors. They damage plants and trees, disrupt ecosystems, and put key exports like grains, fresh produce, and forest products at risk. These industries generate $150 billion annually and support over 2.3 million Canadian jobs.

The cost of doing nothing

Once invasive pests arrive, they’re difficult—and expensive—to control. Hundreds of millions of dollars are spent every year trying to manage outbreaks. Pests like the emerald ash borer and hemlock woolly adelgid have already devastated forests and urban trees across Canada.

We’re monitoring closely for the Spotted Lanternfly, which has not yet reached Canada, but is present in the United States near the Canadian border. This pest can be particularly harmful to vineyards and orchards across the country.

The good news – You can help

Many invasive pests spread because of human activity—moving firewood, camping gear, or vehicles between regions. But simple actions like checking your trees, you car, your camper or RV, reporting suspicious signs, and not transporting firewood can make a big difference.