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LEWISTOWN -- During a time when plant species are going extinct faster than any period in human history, the survival of species and persistence of healthy ecosystems requires science-based decisions.
Recent reports reveal an alarming conclusion: 34 percent of plants are at risk of extinction; and 41 percent of ecosystems are at risk of collapse. Because many protected areas prioritize geological features or landscapes of cultural insignificance instead of targeting threatened biodiversity, most at-risk species and ecosystems are insufficiently protected to prevent further decline.
Invasive plants can have a number of negative impacts on the environment, including disruption of natural ecosystem processes; alternation of soil chemistry preventing the regrowth of native plants; increased soil erosion; and interference with forest regeneration.
The Penn State Extension office in Mifflin County, located at 152 E. Market St., Suite 100, Lewistown, will host an in-person informational workshop from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 21.
The workshop will focus on identifying common invasive plant species and offer strategies for controlling these species.
"The land we manage is part of a larger network of natural spaces, home to many species of wildlife and insects that require native plants for food and cover. However, not all landscaped plants are beneficial and can create larger problems for land managers," said Cat Pugh, one of the workshop presenters who is the Centre County forestry and wildlife educator with Penn State Extension.
"Join our Invasive Plant Identification and Management Workshop to learn how to recognize and reduce the spread of common invasive plants," she added.
Pugh's programming focuses on agroforestry, forest plants and youth education. She hosts regular plant walks in central Pennsylvania to teach participants how to identify common native and invasive plants in nature.
She will be joined by Emily Rojik, a research technologist for Penn State Extension on the forestry and wildlife team. Rojik educates natural resource professionals and the public about vegetation management, invasive plants and using herbicides. Previously, she worked in the Penn State Wildland Weed Management program for six years, where she conducted habitat management projects and staff training in state parks throughout Pennsylvania.
The intended audience for this workshop is varied and can include landscapers, municipal employees, gardeners, groundskeepers and landowners. Anyone with a keen interest in learning more about invasive plants and their management is encouraged to attend.
The cost is $10 per person and registration can be completed online at https://extension.psu.edu/invasive-plant-identification-and-management.
A light breakfast will be provided, and pesticide applicator credits will be available.
For more information, contact Penn State Extension Educator Cher Harpster at (717) 363-9052 or email cyh101@psu.edu.