Southwest Michigan landowners and interested community members are invited to attend the upcoming W.K. Kellogg Experimental Forest Invasive Species Workshop from 1:30 to 4 p.m. Wednesday, June 24, at the W.K. Kellogg Experimental Forest in Augusta, Michigan.
Hosted by MSU AgBioResearch, the workshop will focus on identifying and managing invasive woody and herbaceous plants, including trees, shrubs, vines and weeds, that threaten local landscapes and forest ecosystems. Participants will learn effective control strategies to help protect native habitats and improve the long-term health and resilience of forests and private properties throughout the region.
The workshop also will highlight technical guidance and financial assistance opportunities available to landowners interested in conservation and invasive species management.
“We have many invasive species in southwest Michigan and the region, and we will likely experience an increase in new threats from emerging invasives related to climate change and other human-caused factors,” said K.J. Kettler, forest manager with the W.K. Kellogg Experimental Forest. “Early detection and management are crucial first steps in protecting your landscape and our shared environment. This workshop is designed to help people understand what resources are available and how to navigate the process to support those objectives.”
Invasive species can negatively affect forest health, ecosystem services and the establishment and regeneration of native species. Many thrive and spread rapidly because they lack natural predators or competition in the environments they invade.
The event agenda includes an introduction to the history of the W.K. Kellogg Experimental Forest presented by Kettler, followed by presentations from local conservation experts on invasive species resources, forestry programs and management practices. Speakers include Sara Rahn, invasive species coordinator for the Barry, Calhoun and Kalamazoo Cooperative Invasive Species Management Area (BCK CISMA), and Ben Savoie, district forester for the Barry Conservation District.
Attendees will also participate in a hands-on field demonstration focused on invasive species identification, management techniques and safety practices with support from the BCK CISMA Strike Team.
The workshop is open to southwest Michigan community members, landowners and other interested individuals. Registration and additional information are available here.
