Invasive species conference slated March 25

Wednesday, March 19, 2014

They may look pretty, but there are many invasive plant species that have a significant negative impact on Oklahoma agriculture. Couple these plants with some invasive insect pests and you have a recipe for disaster.

In an effort to help Oklahomans learn more about the detrimental effects of these plants and insects and how to control them, the Oklahoma Invasive Species Conference is slated March 25 at the Wyndham Garden Hotel, 2010 S. Meridian Ave., in Oklahoma City.

Jackie Lee, Oklahoma State University Cooperative Extension fruit and nut entomologist and pesticide coordinator, said the one-day conference is geared toward helping educate the people of Oklahoma about invasive species that threaten the economics and ecological health of our state.

“We’ve got several university and industry professionals who will be on hand to share their expertise,” Lee said. “They’ll be sharing information on everything from kudzu and fire ants to invasive aquatics and feral hogs. Speakers will provide regulatory information, as well as species identification, control methods and environmental impact. We’ve got a lot of information packed into this conference.”

The conference also will feature an informative poster session.

This informative conference is sponsored by OSU Cooperative Extension; National Institute of Food and Agriculture, Agriculture and Food Research Initiative; the Oklahoma Department of Food and Forestry; and the following academic departments at OSU: entomology and plant pathology, natural resource ecology and management, plant and soil sciences and zoology.

The registration fee is $50 and participants may register online or simply register at the conference site. The fee includes a continental breakfast, refreshment and lunch. Online registration is available at http://agconferences.okstate.edu/oklahoma-invasive-species-conference-1. Participants also may print a registration form and mail it in.

CCA CEUs, pesticide applicator CEUs and in-service credit will be given to participants.