The Connecticut Invasive Plant Working Group will present “Challenges and Successes: Working Cooperatively to Manage Invasive Plants,” a one-day symposium at the University of Connecticut in Storrs, on Thursday, Oct. 14 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The symposium will address the importance of native habitats, how invasive species harm these habitats, and why cooperative efforts are vital to understanding and managing natural landscapes.
All who are interested in invasive plant issues are invited to attend. This symposium seeks to draw together municipal staff (parks and recreation, public works, inland wetlands/conservation commissions), nursery, tree and landscape professionals, educators, students, landscape architects, gardening enthusiasts, state and federal employees, members of conservation organizations, and the public in a discussion of the challenges presented by invasive plants and how to promote native plants by managing invasives.
The keynote speaker will be Bernd Blossey of Cornell University, whose presentation is titled “The Power of Choice: New Frontiers in Invasive Plant Management and Conservation.” Concurrent afternoon sessions will include the industry perspective – what’s working; early detection and rapid response; research on the management of invasives; invaded forests; Cooperative Weed Management Areas; and local success stories. Research posters and other educational exhibits will be featured throughout the day.
Pesticide recertification credits and a variety of other continuing education credits will be offered.
Early registration (postmarked by Sept. 18) is $40. The fee is $55 if postmarked after Sept. 18 or for walk-in registrations. The fee for students with ID is $25. Walk-in registrations only if space is available. The symposium program, registration form, and other information are available on the Connecticut Invasive Plant Working Group website.
Please send registration and checks (payable to The University of Connecticut) to: Donna Ellis, University of Connecticut, Department of Plant Science & Landscape Architecture, 1390 Storrs Road, Unit 4163, Storrs, CT 06269-4163. Included in the cost of admission are an information packet, parking, lunch, snacks, and beverages.
For more information:
Donna Ellis, 860-486-6448, Donna.Ellis@uconn.edu
