The University of Illinois Extension announced on May 5 that it will offer a two-day Introduction to Invasive Species Management program this summer, combining online learning and regional field days across Illinois. The course begins with an online session on June 9, followed by in-person training at seven locations from June 10 to 12.
Invasive species can cause ecological and economic harm by spreading rapidly and displacing native plants, animals, and insects. These issues are significant for communities seeking to maintain healthy natural areas. Last year’s inaugural program saw strong interest, with more than 175 participants attending fully booked field days.
“What we saw last year is that people care about how invasive species are affecting their property or local natural areas, and they want to know how they can help,” said Christopher Evans, forestry Extension and research specialist. “It’s not always easy to know what a plant is in the moment or what to do with it, but these field days give people the real-world experience they need to feel more confident managing invasives.”
Participants will learn about invasive species ecology, plant identification, and management strategies during the online portion of the course. The following field days provide practical experience in identifying local invasive plants, reviewing tools for removal or control, and observing live demonstrations led by local Extension staff at various sites throughout the state.
The program is open to early-career professionals in natural resources fields as well as landowners, volunteers, students, or anyone interested in gaining hands-on skills related to invasive species management. Those who complete both sessions will receive a certificate from Illinois Extension. Registration costs $25 per person and includes lunch during the field day; spaces are limited for each location.
For further information on registration or accommodations for participation needs contact Chris Evans at (618) 695-3383 or cwevans@illinois.edu before June 8.
The University of Illinois Extension benefits from volunteers who contribute more than $15 million in resources annually; it enhances cultural and social well-being through health equity initiatives while utilizing facilities such as the Christopher Extension Center on the Urbana-Champaign campus; it is affiliated with the College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences at University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign as part of the national land-grant university system; its programs focus on community resilience and sustainability; core values include belief in people and education principles—according to the official website.
