University of Illinois to host First Detector Workshop in Springfield March 15th

[March 05, 2016]    The University of Illinois Extension will offer a workshop focused on early detection of and responses to invasive pests in Illinois.

• Date: Tuesday, March 15, 2016
• Time: 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., registration begins at 8:30 a.m.
• Location: University of Illinois Extension - Sangamon County Office, 700 S. Airport Drive, Springfield, IL 62707
• Cost: $40 Registration Fee covers instruction, onsite lunch, and training materials

Early detection and response are key to managing invasive pests. The Illinois First Detector Workshops are aimed at improving first detector training and invasive species awareness. Topics in 2016 will cover insect invaders of forests, boxwood blight, and jumping worms. Learn more about your role as a first detector and what's new with the Illinois Exotic Weed Act.

These in-depth training sessions will cover: identification/detection, life cycle/biology, sampling, management, and commonly confused look-a-likes. Participants can take part in hands-on activities.

Continuing Education Credits applied for: IAA Certified Arborists, Society of American Foresters, Master Naturalists, and Master Gardeners.

Pre-registration is required and is available at http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lms/. Visit this website for a detailed agenda. Questions, please contact Jennifer Fishburn at [e-mail] or [phone].

[Jennifer Fishburn, Horticulture Educator, University of Illinois Extension]