Persistence in working behind the screen to prevent and manage invasive species is the theme of the 2021 Alaska Invasive Species Workshop, which is being hosted online in Zoom sessions from 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Nov. 3-4.
As of early 2021, Alaska became one of at least 32 states to report finding invasive zebra mussels in moss balls, which were being sold at pet stores. Zebra mussels, a significant problem in the Lower 48, have not been detected in Alaska, thanks in part to efforts to prevent their spread. Once these mussels in moss balls were discovered in Alaska, invasive species managers and community partners halted their import and sale, while educating the public about proper disposal. That effort is one example of the work to be celebrated at this year’s workshop, where speakers will discuss invasive species science, management and planning, while identifying emerging issues statewide.
Topics include urban forest pest readiness, biocontrol opportunities and invasive species legislation.
Workshop coordinator Gino Graziano, an invasive plants instructor at the University of Alaska Cooperative Extension Service, said the workshop helps coordinate invasive species management efforts and highlights new problems, particularly those that could cause economic or environmental damage. One relatively new concern, according to workshop organizers, is the spread of a non-native marine creature.
Registration for the workshop will be free this year. The agenda and registration information are online at www.alaskainvasives.org.
For more information contact Graziano at 907-586-6315 or email him at gagraziano@alaska.edu
