Spring brings warmer temperatures, birds chirping, colorful flowers, and green leaves, but if you look closely you’ll see the spring resurgence of invasive species that are damaging our natural areas and wrecking cherished animal habitats.
Invasive species are those not originally from this area (non-native) and cause harm to the environment, human health and the economy. Examples include Bradford pear trees, garlic mustard, the emerald ash borer, and Asian bush honeysuckle.
Once your eyes are opened to invasive species, you’ll unfortunately see them everywhere. However, there is good news: The actions of property owners managing their own properties and making informed choices when buying plants can help take back the local ecosystem for beneficial native plants.
The Hamilton County Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) and Hamilton County Invasives Partnership (HIP) are here to help you learn how.
Back after a two-year break, SWCD’s spring sustainability workshop will focus on invasive species. The public is invited to join the SWCD and HIP for a hands-on workshop where attendees can learn about the threat of invasive species, practical management basics with demonstrations, and how to identify and eradicate invasives species on their property. Attendees will also get support in creating a management plan for their land.
“Every person has invasive species on their own property or invasive species at a park or public space they love. Probably both!” said Hamilton County SWCD Urban Conservationist and HIP coordinator Claire Lane. “This workshop will cover all the basics you need to get started managing invasives on your property.”
The Sustainability Workshop will take place on Saturday, April 2 at the Hamilton County 4-H Fairgrounds, 2003 Pleasant St., Noblesville. The workshop costs $10 per person and will run from 9 a.m. to noon. Registration can be completed at hamiltonswcd.org. You can learn more about invasives at hcinvasives.org.
Questions regarding the event can be directed to Claire Lane at Claire.lane@hamiltoncounty.in.gov or by calling (317) 773-2181.