Get ‘HIP’ on invasive plants in Hamilton County

Lesser celandine was found this spring at Hazel Dell Landing. The invasive plant is an emerging concern in Hamilton County. (Photo provided by Hamilton County Soil & Water Conservation District)

Many of the invasive plants that plague Hamilton County have spread to the point that complete eradication is impossible.

Strategic management of species like Asian honeysuckle, garlic mustard, tree of heaven, and callery pear is the best hope to manage infestations and preserve high-quality areas. This realization highlights the importance of early identification and eradication of new problem species.

The recent identification of the Spotted Lanternfly in Indiana for the first time is a great example of early detection education at work.

The Hamilton County Invasives Partnership (HIP) invites readers to a free online webinar covering emerging invasive plants in Central Indiana. Mary Welz, Southern Indiana Cooperative Invasives Management Regional Specialist, will guide attendees through identification and background on species to watch for and options for reporting.

The webinar will take place at 1 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 26. Attendees can register at hcinvasives.org. The webinar will be recorded and participants are encouraged to register even if they can’t attend live as the recording will be distributed via email link afterward.

About the Hamilton County Invasives Partnership

The Hamilton County Invasives Partnership (HIP) is a coalition of local landowners and managers, organizations, and citizens united in the battle against invasive species and the destruction they cause across the county. HIP is a project of the Hamilton County Soil and Water Conservation District. Learn more about invasive species and how to get involved at hcinvasives.org.