UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Anyone interested in invasive species in Pennsylvania, including conservation volunteers, educators, green industry professionals and Master Gardeners can learn more about this topic through free webinars hosted by Penn State Extension.
“Pennsylvania Invasive Species” is an ongoing webinar series with several events for this year. The webinars, scheduled from 1 p.m. to 2:15 p.m., will include the following:
— “Japanese Knotweed,” Aug. 7. This webinar will examine the origins of Japanese knotweed, or Reynoutria japonica, its introduction and spread across the United States, and the biological traits that make it such a persistent management challenge. Participants will gain practical guidance on identifying Japanese knotweed in the field and learn about current best practices for effective control and long-term management. Register here.
— “Beech Leaf Disease Nematodes,” Sept. 4. Beech leaf disease is an emerging and destructive threat to native and ornamental beech trees across North America. This webinar will examine the tiny but powerful culprit — Litylenchus crenatae mccannii, a foliar nematode responsible for the disease — and explain how it is identified and diagnosed, how it spreads within and between trees, and what current research reveals about its biology, transmission and host interactions. Register here.
— “Crape Myrtle Bark Scale,” Oct. 2. In this webinar, participants will learn about the biology and spread of crape myrtle bark scale, an emerging invasive pest threatening crape myrtles across the United States. Presenters will explore how to recognize signs and symptoms of infestation and the challenges this pest presents for landscapes and ornamental plantings. Register here.
— “Lady Beetles,” Nov. 6. This webinar will examine the multicolored Asian lady beetle known as Harmonia axyridis, a beneficial insect that helps control aphids and other soft-bodied pests. Participants will learn how this introduced species became established in North America, the important biological control services it provides, and the challenges it can create in homes, vineyards and native ecosystems. The discussion also will examine the complex role of insects that can be both beneficial and problematic in human-managed landscapes. Register here.
— “Biosecurity,” Dec. 4. Invasive insects pose an ongoing threat to agriculture, forests, landscapes and natural ecosystems across the United States. This introductory webinar will help participants understand what invasive insects are, how they differ from native and introduced species, and why early detection is essential to slowing their spread and minimizing impacts. Register here.
Penn State Extension offers these events at no charge, but registration is required to receive the link to access each webinar.
A link to the recorded webinar will be emailed to registrants within 10 business days after the live event. The recording will be accessible for six months from the event date.
More information is available on the Penn State Extension website.