Getting Ahead of Invasive Species: The Morton Arboretum Restoration Forum

Everyone who restores natural areas must grapple with invasive plant species, from Japanese stiltgrass to Oriental bittersweet to birdsfoot trefoil. The Morton Arboretum will hold a two-day forum in September where restoration professionals and dedicated volunteer stewards from the Chicago region can learn and exchange practical information on weed management.

Forum Speakers will include:

·  Chris Evans, Invasive Species Campaign of the Illinois Wildlife Action Plan

·  Bill Kleiman and Cody Considine, Nachusa Grasslands

·  Cathy McGlynn, Northern Illinois Invasive Plant Partnership

·  Joe Suchecki and Nick Fuller, Springbrook Prairie

·  Kurt Dreisilker and Mark Hochsprung, The Morton Arboretum

·  Geoff Zink and Kim Blaszczak, Integrated Lakes Management

·  Jason Zylka, Forest Preserve District of Will County

Topics will include site management strategies for tough invaders, successful tactics; new approaches to herbicide application; and the latest on management practices for new invaders. On Saturday, September 14, there will be three field excursions: to prairie and woodland restoration projects at the Arboretum; to Springbrook Prairie in Naperville; or to the Nachusa Grasslands, Franklin Grove. 

Cost of the September 13 forum: $55 for Arboretum members, $65 for nonmembers, $15 for students, including Arboretum admission, refreshments, a box lunch, and program materials. Field excursions require separate registration and do not require registration for the forum. To register, click Restoration Forum.