Stewardship Series: The Battle for Biodiversity

July 21, 2026 from 6:30pm to 8:00pm

Join ISCMV & Stanely Park Ecology for a free virtual event as part of our Stewardship Series.

Presentation Title: The Battle for Biodiversity: Garry Oak Ecosystems and Invasive Species

Registration: complete the Zoom registration here

Presentation Description: In this presentation we will talk about what Garry Oak ecosystems are, their importance, and current status. We will then focus on the invasive species threatening remaining areas, with a discussion on the implications through both a small and broad lens. Finally, to provide an avenue of action and optimism, I will outline the benefits of ecological restoration, including other actions that community members can take to help both stop the spread of invasive species and support Garry Oak ecosystems in British Columbia.

Bio: Hunter Jarratt is a local conservationist who graduated from the Bachelor of Natural Resource Protection Program at Vancouver Island University in 2023, and is currently a student in the Restoration of Natural Systems Certificate Program at the University of Victoria. In recent years, he has worked with a number of local environmental organizations in both workplace and volunteer capacities, and now owns an ecological restoration consulting business. He is known as the "Invasive Species Guy" on social media where he creates educational content focusing on invasive species management, particularly in Garry Oak and associated ecosystems. Hunter was the recipient of the Invasive Species Council of British Columbia's 2025 Together in Action Rising Star Award, and helped lead the advocacy efforts last year that resulted in the City of Nanaimo being officially tasked with drafting a bylaw banning the sale of invasive species.