SLELO PRISM

Birds as Habitat Health Indicators
2024-05-17 13:00 - 14:00 UTC
On May 17th, 2024, from 1 PM- 2 PM via Zoom join SLELO PRISM and the Albany Pine Bush Preserve Commission to learn how birds can be used as a biological indicator to determine habitat health. Birds are biological indicators, meaning they are relatively quick to respond to changes in ecosystem composition, structure, and function; this includes those changes brought about by both the invasion and management of invasive species. Conservation Director of the Albany Pine Bush Preserve Commission, Neil Gifford, will discuss a bird banding and tracking program used at the Preserve to determine ecosystem health, the impacts of invasive species, and benefits of management, as well as ways homeowners and land managers can support birds.
Presented by: Neil Gifford, Conservation Director- Albany Pine Bush Preserve Commission
Continuing Education Credits:

SAF-1 Cat. 1 credit
Master Naturalist: 1 Hour Credit
ISA: Certified Arborist: 1; Management: 1

REGISTER

Earth Month Events
2024-04-20 - 2024-04-30
April is Earth Month! Join tree plantings, clean-ups, events, and more!

Saturday, April 20th, 10 AM-2 PM: Earth Day Celebration at the Minna Anthony Nature Center on Wellesley Island
April 20th, 9 AM-12 PM Indian River Lakes Conservancy Redwood Preserve Trash Clean-up
April 22nd – Join Save the River’s Earth Day cleanup in Downtown Clayton
Friday, April 26th, 10AM: Arbor Day Celebration at the Minna Anthony Nature Center on Wellesley Island
Saturday, April 27th, 9AM: Tree Planting at the Ives Street High School Campus located at 1316 Ives St. in Watertown NY.
Saturday, April 27th, 10AM-3PM: Party for the Planet at the Utica Zoo. SLELO will have an exhibit!

Enhancing the Health of Riparian Ecosystems Through Restoration and Invasive Species Management
2024-04-10 13:00 - 14:00
Riparian areas play a vital role in water quality and provide many important ecosystem services. Invasive species can have a big impact on riparian areas by reducing biodiversity and altering ecosystem function. SLELO PRISM is working on enhancing the resiliency of riparian areas within the Eastern Lake Ontario region through invasive species management and restoration. This webinar will provide an overview of our multiyear Riparian Restoration Initiative and showcase the ecological importance of the project areas, the impacts invasive species can have on riparian areas, invasive species control, and restoration techniques applied during the projects, selected plants, community involvement, and future plans.
Continuing Education Credits:

SAF Cat. 1: 1 Hour
Society of Ecological Restoration (CERP): 1 Credit Hour
Master Naturalist: 1 Credit Hour
ISA: Certified Arborist: 1; Management: 1

Resilient Long Island Symposium
2024-03-07 - 2024-03-09
Resilient Long Island is a symposium in which community members, researchers, and professionals are invited to learn how to foster resilient ecological communities. After learning about native plants, invasive species management strategies, restoration practices, and more, attendees will be inspired to take action. Whether you are interested in bolstering your community science program or implementing a restoration project, this event has something for everyone.
Hosted by our partners at the Long Island Invasive Species Management Area and Long Island Native Plant Initiative at Hofstra University– and other workshop locations– expect three action-packed days of presentations, interactive workshops, a brewery poster session, and more!
Visit the LIISMA webpage for details and to register!

Jumping Worms: What you Need to Know, and How You Can Help Prevent Their Spread
2024-03-01 13:00 - 14:00
Please join us on March 1st, 1-2 PM via Zoom for an informative webinar to learn how to recognize jumping worms, what to do if you find them, and how you can help prevent their spread. If you are a gardener or plant nursery owner, we strongly encourage you to join as you can greatly assist with spread prevention initiatives.
Continuing Education Credits Awarded:SAF Cat. 1: 1 creditMaster Naturalist: 1 hourISA: BCMA Science:0.5; Certified Arborist: 1; Practice:0.5
Jumping worms are invasive earthworms that reduce soil health in urbanized landscapes and forested areas. This invasive worm easily goes unnoticed and can unknowingly be spread by the introduction of infested soil from potted or transplanted plants.
Jumping worms have been reported present in Oswego, Oneida, and St. Lawrence Counties in the Eastern Lake Ontario Region, and are likely present but under-reported in other areas of New York State. Learn more about jumping worms on our website.
This webinar is hosted by SLELO PRISM and presented by, Annise Dobson an Associate Research Scientist at Yale University.
Dr. Annise Dobson grew up on a farm in the Ottawa Valley in Ontario, Canada. After completing her PhD at Cornell University, she began a position as a postdoctoral researcher at the Yale School of the Environment. Her research focuses on the impacts of jumping worms, white-tailed deer, and other stressors on native plant communities in Northeastern Canada and the United States. Currently, she is working to identify the movement of jumping worms and assess their impacts on soil and plant communities.

REGISTER

Eastern Lake Ontario Swallow-wort Collaborative Webinar: Biocontrol Research and Field Applications Update
2024-02-02 13:00 - 14:15
Hosted by SLELO PRISM’s Eastern Lake Ontario Swallow Wort Collaborative (ELOSC) please join us on Friday, February 2nd, 2024 from 1 pm-2:15 pm for an informative webinar.
Continuing Education Credits Awarded:SAF Cat. 1: 1 CreditMaster naturalist: 1 hourISA: BCMA Science:0.5; Certified Arborist: 1.25; Practice:0.75
Get the latest updates on swallow-wort biocontrol research and field applications. Hear from professionals at SUNY ESF, Michigan State University, University of Rhode Island Biocontrol Lab, and Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada to learn about the current state of Hypena opulenta and Chrysochus asclepiadeus lab and field applications. Updates on SLELO PRISM’s swallow-wort biocontrol efforts will also be provided.
Presenters:
Dylan Parry- SUNY ESF
Lisa Tewksbury- University of Rhode Island Biocontrol Lab
Marianna Szucs- Michigan State University
Ian Jones- Postdoctoral research fellow working with the Smith Forest Health Lab and Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC)
Robert Smith-SLELO PRISM Terrestrial Restoration and Resiliency Coordinator
The Eastern Lake Ontario Swallow-Wort Collaborative is hosted by SLELO PRISM to serve as a platform where different stakeholder groups can share information to enhance the management of swallow-wort. Visit the ELOSC website to sign up for the listserv.

REGISTER

Adirondack Forest Ecology: A Case Study on Hemlock Woolly Adelgid in the Great Smoky Mountains
2024-01-18 10:00 - 11:30
January 18th, 10 AM- 11:30 AM
REGISTER
Join our partners at the Adirondack Park Invasive Plant Program for a fascinating discussion on Adirondack forests and how they could be changed by hemlock woolly adelgid, an invasive forest pest. Mark Lesser, associate professor with the Center for Earth and Environmental Science at Plattsburgh State University, will give a detailed overview of what makes Adirondack forests look and function the way they do. The talk will include foundational tree species, the roles hemlock and beech play, and what could happen if we lose those species to forest pests and pathogens. Jesse Webster, forester and resource manager at Great Smoky Mountains National Park will present a case study on the impact hemlock woolly adelgid has had on the forests in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Hemlock woolly adelgid is an invasive insect that kills eastern hemlocks if left unaddressed. It was first discovered in the Lake George region of the Adirondacks in 2020. Lastly, APIPP Manager Tammara Van Ryn will discuss APIPP’s Forest Pest Hunters program, which trains volunteer citizen scientists to identify, monitor for, and report hemlock woolly adelgid and beech leaf disease.

Invasive Species to Watch for in the New Year Webinar
2024-01-04 13:00 - 14:15
Join us on January 4th, 2024 1 PM- 2:15 PM to learn what invasive species to keep an eye out for in the new year.
Continuing Education Credits Awarded: SAF Category 1: 1 creditMaster Naturalist: 1 hourISA: BCMA Science:0.75; Certified Arborist: 1.25; Practice:0.5
Invasive species like spotted lanternfly, elm zigzag sawfly, box tree moth, and beech leaf disease are not yet considered to be well established in the St. Lawrence Eastern Lake Ontario Region, as well as in other parts of New York State. Detecting the presence of invasive species before their populations grow or spread helps to reduce their impacts. You can help aid early detection efforts by learning how to recognize these invasive species and joining early detection efforts occurring in the region and across the state. Hear from experts with the NYS Department of Agriculture and Markets, and the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation to learn about these species, as well as, from SLELO PRISM on how you can aid early detection efforts in the SLELO region and beyond.
This webinar is hosted by the St. Lawrence Eastern Lake Ontario Partnership for Regional Invasive Species Management (SLELO PRISM) and presented by:

Thom Allgaier, NYS Department of Agriculture & Markets
Maria MoskaLee & Liam Somers, NYS Department of Environmental Conservation
Megan Pistolese-Shaw, SLELO PRISM

REGISTER

2023 NAISMA Annual Biocontrol Summit USING WEED BIOCONTROL TO REDUCE WILDFIRE RISK AND MITIGATE WILDFIRE IMPACTS
2023-12-07 12:00 - 16:00
December 7, 2023, from 12 PM- 4 PM EST DETAILS/REGISTER

The North American Invasive Species Management Association’s 4th Annual Weed Biocontrol Summit will be held virtually on December 7, 2023, from 11:00 a.m. – to 3:00 p.m. CST. The Biocontrol Summit communicates the latest in classical weed biocontrol research to North American invasive plant managers and educators and aims to connect researchers to on-the-ground practitioners. This year, NAISMA is highlighting the role weed biological control can play in reducing wildfire risk and mitigating wildfire impacts throughout North America. The Biocontrol Summit integrates research and implementation of biocontrol from the regional land managers’ perspective.

#FirewoodMonth Webinar Series
2023-10-01 - 2023-10-21
October is Firewood Month. Celebrate with The Nature Conservancy’s Don’t Move Firewood Team and join a special webinar series exploring the world of firewood safety.
Thursday, October 10th, 2024 at noon EST
Firewood Movement Regulation, Outreach, and Impact Register Here
Presenter: Leigh Greenwood, Forest Pest and Pathogen Program Director, The Nature Conservancy
Firewood movement regulations, recommendations, outreach, and forest pests’ distribution change through time. The Don’t Move Firewood campaign is a leader in this space, not only for excellence in communicating behavior change messages to the public, but also as a professional resource to track and communicate regulatory frameworks and pest range shift information. This presentation will cover the basics of current firewood regulations in the USA, what resources Don’t Move Firewood has for both the layperson and for forest and firewood professionals, and- when it all comes together- how we can slow the spread of damaging forest pests and pathogens across the country.

Thursday, October 10th, 2024 at 4 pm EST
Successful Campground Outreach in Montana RESCHEDULING
Due to scheduling conflicts, we are rescheduling this webinar! Stay tuned for a new date.
Presenter: Fern McBride, 2024 Montana Conservation Corps Member for Montana Department of Natural Resources; and Liz Lodman, Council Administrator, Montana Invasive Species Council
Fern McBride reviews his efforts in delivering outstanding firewood outreach to campgrounds across Montana in 2024 during his internship with the Montana Invasive Species Council.

Monday, October 28th, 2024 at 1 pm EST
Meet the Don’t Move Firewood Team! Register Here
Presenters: Laurel Downs, Forest Health Conservation Coordinator, The Nature Conservancy; and Leigh Greenwood, Forest Pest and Pathogen Program Director, The Nature Conservancy
Meet the team and learn about the education and outreach efforts of the Don’t Move Firewood campaign including an overview of what the campaign does, why it’s important, how you can access our many resources, and what we’ve got to offer both the everyday firewood user as well as professionals in the field of forest health.

Wednesday, October 30th, 2024 at 1 pm EST
Updates and New Findings in the World of Firewood Outreach Register Here
Presenter: Laurel Downs, Forest Health Conservation Coordinator, The Nature Conservancy
Join to hear from the program coordinator for the Don’t Move Firewood campaign about changes over the last year across North America in the world of forest pests and the firewood pathway. Also, find out what we’ve been up to on social media with message frame testing!

2023 New York Invasive Species Expo
2023-09-24 - 2023-09-26
Save the date for the 2023 Invasive Species Expo at beautiful Saratoga Spa State Park in Saratoga Springs, NY!
The NYS DEC Invasive Species Coordination Section and statewide partners are sponsoring an ‘Invasive Species Expo’ on September 24th – 26th and will be a hands-on experience featuring presentations, demonstrations, workshops, and opportunities for small-group discussions.
Learn more about the expo

Volunteers Needed for an Invasive Species Removal Workday
2023-09-23 10:00 - 16:00 | Minna Anthony Common Nature Center, 4927 Cross Island Road, Fineview, NY 13640
Invasive Species Removal Workday hosted by NYS Office of Parks Recreation and Historic Preservation

When: Saturday, September 3rd
Time: 10 AM-4 PM EST
Where: Minna Anthony Nature Center located at, 44927 Cross Island Rd, Fineview, NY 13640 on Wellesley Island
Contact: 315-482-2479
Details: Come join the Nature Center at Wellesley Island State Park for their Invasives Removal Workday! We will be focusing on Buckthorn and Honeysuckle removal, please bring gloves and wear closed-toe shoes. Snacks and refreshments will be provided. We hope to see you there!

Native Alternatives to Common Invasive Plants Webinar
2023-09-14 13:00 - 14:00
September 14th, 1 PM-2 PM (EST)
Webinar via Zoom
REGISTER
Many invasive plants were once considered desirable ornamentals that were intentionally introduced to gardens and landscapes only to escape into our natural environments. You can play a vital role in the introduction and prevention of invasive plants by choosing to grow native species and taking action to control invasives you may find on your property. This presentation will provide an overview of native alternatives to common invasive garden plants, the benefits of native plants, and ways to get involved.

Oswegatchie River Water Chestnut Removal Effort
2023-07-15 10:00 - 16:00
Saturday, July 15th, 2023
10 AM- 4 PM EST
Oswegatchie River
Event Press Release
Facebook and Instagram graphics
Facebook Event Link
REGISTER

Water chestnut is an invasive aquatic species that grows dense floating mats that impede outdoor recreation and reduce shoreline property values. There is an infestation of water chestnuts on the Oswegatchie River near the Village of Heuvelton. Water chestnut is an invasive aquatic plant that forms large mats that shade out native aquatic vegetation and has the ability to completely dominate surface waters. It reduces oxygen levels for fish and encourages sedimentation by restricting silt movement. The hard, pointy seeds of water chestnut can puncture vehicle tires or injure feet if stepped on. If not managed, the infestation of water chestnuts on the Oswegatchie River can grow and easily spread to connecting waterbodies, like Black Lake.
There will be a hand-pull removal effort on Saturday, July 15th, 2023 beginning at 10 AM and projected to end by 4 PM rain or shine unless lightning is in the forecast (7/16 reserved as an alternate inclement weather date). YOU MUST HAVE YOUR OWN WATERCRAFT TO ATTEND.
The Village of Heuvelton Fire Department is donating lunch to those who attend this event (burgers, hot dogs, fries).
Volunteers will be divided into groups to launch at one of these sites:
Launch Location 1-Launch from the Village of Heuvelton boat launch and paddle to the Horseshoe Campground (approximately 3-4 hours).
Launch Location 2– Launch from the Horseshoe Camp and paddle to Eel Weir State Park (approximately 3-4 hours).
If you plan to provide any services or equipment or will volunteer to hand-pull please CLICK HERE to REGISTER to indicate your intention (regardless of if you’ve already agreed to do so in other meetings or verbally). We are using your responses to this form to organize the event.
More details regarding logistics will be emailed to the address you provide as the event approaches. The above logistics are subject to change.
Please contact Megan.Pistolese@tnc.org with any questions you may have.

This effort is being supported by SLELO PRISM, The Black Lake Association, NYS Office of Parks Recreation and Historic Preservation, NYS DEC, Indian River Lakes Conservancy, Save The River, Thousand Island Land Trust, the Cornell Cooperative Extension of St. Lawrence County, the Village of Heuvelton Fire Department, the City of Ogdensburg Fire & Rescue, the town of Morristown, Brookfield Energy, the Chippewa Bay Fish and Game Club, Chippewa Yacht Club, Black Lake Fish & Game Association, St. Lawrence Waterfowlers, St. Lawrence Valley Sportsman Club, St. Lawrence Sportsmens Federation, St. Lawrence Federal Credit Union, Comprehensive Weed Control of Northern New York, and many volunteers.
The organizations below are aiding the coordination of this event:

Volunteers Needed to Assist Restoration Planting
2023-06-24 09:00 - 2023-06-29 15:00
June 24th-29th
9 AM-3 PM EST
South Sandy Creek car-top boat launch, located at 2234 Route 3 in Mannsvillle, NY
REGISTER
Volunteers are needed to assist with plantings to occur from June 24th through the 29th at the Lakeview Wildlife Management Area South Sandy Creek car-top boat launch located at 2234 Route 3 in Mannsvillle, NY. A planting tutorial will begin promptly at 9 AM each day, and volunteers will be teamed up and assigned an area to install plants. Volunteers can assist with plantings, photography, registration, and other needs.No experience is needed and tools will be provided.
Plantings are intended to restore areas where invasive species have been removed as part of a multi-year riparian restoration initiative being led by SLELO PRISM. Volunteers have an extremely important role in this project and in protecting our lands and waters. By conducting restoration where we have suppressed riparian invasive species, we are supporting the recovery of native plants, which improves the quality and resilience of South Sandy Creek.

2023 Eastern Lake Ontario Invasive Species Symposium (registration closed)
2023-06-22
Symposium Agenda
Symposium Resources
Symposium Speaker & Exhibitor Showcase
On June 22nd will host our Eastern Lake Ontario Invasive Species Symposium. Registration is required for this FREE in-person single-day event to be held at the Tailwater Lodge in Altmar, NY located at 52 Pulaski St, Altmar, NY 13302. During the Symposium you will hear from our regional and state-wide partners and learn of invasive species management projects that align with our theme of, Enhancing Biodiversity and Resilience Through Invasive Species Management, Restoration, and Innovation. Reach out to Megan.Pistolese@tnc.org for questions.
The entrance to the symposium is located on the far right back corner of the building, see the highlighted path in the photo below for the entrance location.

The following continuing education credits have been applied for and awarded credits will be provided as they are received:

Society of American Foresters

Category 1: 5 credits

DEC Pesticide Applicators

Category: Core (000) awarded .5 credits
Category: Demonstration (10) awarded 1.50 credits
Category: Forest (2) awarded 1.50 credits
Category: Ornamental and Turf (3a) awarded 1.50 credits
Category: Regulatory (9) awarded 1.50 credits

New York State Arborists
Master Naturalist

4.5 hours awarded
Master naturalists seeking to be awarded these credits are to submit their own hours online at the NY Master Naturalist Program Website.

Symposium Agenda ( speaker showcase, symposium resources, and continuing education credit information will be available soon)
8:20- 8:45 AM: Registration/Refreshments
8:50-9:00 AM: Opening Remarks
MORNING SESSION
9:00-9:20 AM: Resilient and Connected Lands & Waters- Rob Williams, SLELO PRISM
9:22-9:42 AM: Resilient Urban Forests- Robert Smith, SLELO PRISM
9:44-10:04 AM: Climate Smart Forests- Chris Zimmerman, TNC
10:06-10:26 AM: Promoting Native Resilience Against Climate Change- Eva Colberg, NYISRI/Cornell University
10:28-10:48 AM: Riparian Corridor Restoration- Brittney Rogers, SLELO PRISM
10:50-11:10 AM: Role of Native Plants in Shoreline Restoration-Roy Widrig-NYSG
11:12-11:32 AM: Adirondack Native Vegetation Re-establishment Project-Zack Simek-APIPP
MID-DAY SESSION
11:34-11:50 AM: Afternoon Announcements- Gabriel Yerdon/Megan Pistolese-Shaw
11:50 AM-12:50 PM: Lunch & engagement with exhibits and demonstrations (Lunch provided by The Nature Conservancy)
12:55-1:30 PM: 3-Minute Lightning Round Presentations
AFTERNOON SESSION
1:32-1:52 PM: Approaches to Protect Hemlock Forests-Caroline Marschner NYSHI
1:54-2:14 PM: 5-Year Typha Management Assessment in Oswego Peatland-Eric Hellquist- SUNY Oswego University
2:16-2:36 PM: Leveraging Data to Enhance Invasive Species Management-Fate Syewoangnuan-NYNHP/iMapInvasives
2:38-2:58 PM: Preparing for and Managing Spotted Lanternfly- Brian Eshenaur- Cornell NYS IPM
3:00-3:20 PM: Invasive Species Management at the State Level-Thom Allgaier- NYS AGM
3:22-3:52 PM: Pesticide Use Requirements & Certification– Donald Nelson, NYS DEC Bureau of Pesticides Management
3:55-4:00 PM: Closing Remarks
To get group-rate lodging at the Tailwater Lodge, follow the steps below:

Visit www.tailwaterlodge.com
Click Book Now (upper right corner)
Edit Arrival/Departure dates (valid June 21-23, 2023)
Number of rooms/guests
Click the Special Rates button
Group Code: SLELO
Click Update
The Group Rate of $101 per night will appear for reservations. Guests must reserve the room with a credit card. A card will be authorized upon arrival for the full amount, plus incidentals, and will not get charged until the day of departure. All rooms must be booked by MAY 21, 2023 to receive the discounted rate.

Guests can also call the hotel direct at (315) 298-3434 and give the agent the Group Code (SLELO).
Guest check-in is 3:00 pm and guest check-out is 11:00 am.
Hotel Amenities: Restaurant and lounge, indoor pool, large outdoor hot tub, full-service spa, various indoor and outdoor games, hiking trail, and fitness center! Enjoy
To book Spa Appointments: https://go.booker.com/location/Tailwater/service-menu
Cancellation: If you need to cancel your reservation, it must be done 48 hours prior to the day of arrival. No-shows or cancellations will be charged a one-night room and tax.

NYISAW Yellow Flag Iris Removal
2023-06-08 10:00 - 12:00 | https://goo.gl/maps/5kqFcVLAN5VGWyzB7
What: Manual removal of yellow flag iris.
When: Thursday, June 8th, 10 AM- 12 PM
Where: South Colwell Pond at the Montario Point Boat Launch located on Montario Point Road, Henderson, NY
Details: No experience is needed and tools will be provided. Bring a kayak or canoe to join an optional paddle to the beach for a bring-your-own lunch gathering. Indicate below if you’d like to borrow a watercraft and/or life jacket if one is available.
This event is also in observance of New York Invasive Species Awareness Week NYISAW a state-wide invasive species outreach campaign.
Commonly grown and transplanted for its showy yellow flowers, the yellow flag iris (Iris pseudacorus) has invaded wetlands and other aquatic and semi-aquatic habitats and can be found at the edges of streams and ponds, in open and forested flood plains, along shorelines, and in freshwater and brackish marshes.
REGISTRATION REQUIRED

NYISAW Native Alternatives to Common Invasive Garden Plants Webinar
2023-06-06 13:00 - 14:00
Spring is here and it’s time to start thinking about gardening! Selecting what plants you will grow can be exciting but you could be playing a role in the introduction of invasive plants. Many invasive plants were once considered desirable ornamentals that were intentionally introduced to gardens and landscapes only to escape into our natural environments. You can play a vital role in the introduction and prevention of invasive plants by choosing to grow native species and taking action to control invasives you may find on your property. This webinar will discuss native alternatives to common invasive garden plants, the benefits of native plants, general control methods, and a Pledge to Protect you can take to protect your garden and favorite outdoor spaces from invasive species.
This event is in observance of New York’s annual Invasive Species Awareness Week NYISAW a state-wide invasive species outreach campaign.
When: Tuesday, June 6th, 1 pm- 2 pm via Zoom REGISTER
Presented by: Megan Pistolese-Shaw, SLELO PRISM Education and Outreach Coordinator, and Melanie Cutillo- Owner and operator of Lazy Dirt Flower Farm.

Water Chestnut Organizers iMapInvasives Training
2023-04-04 13:00 - 15:00
Calling all water chestnut removal organizers! There is a state-wide effort to manage water chestnut and to capture efforts in iMapInvasives. This information is of interest to the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation and is being compiled by iMapInvasives into an interpretive dashboard intended to showcase efforts over time.
iMapInvaives is hosting a training on April 4th from 1 pm-3 pm intended to get all the water chestnut organizers across the state trained on how to report their removal efforts to iMap and to collaborate with their local PRISM to enhance regional water chestnut removal efforts. The entire training will be 2 hours and will include time to attend a breakout session led by PRISM AIS coordinators to discuss any needs for getting data into iMap.
Who should attend? PRISM partners and volunteers who organize water chestnut hand-pulls in New York State.
REGISTER
Agenda: may be subject to slight changes.

1:00-1:10 – Overview of water chestnut distribution and efforts across the state – Mitchell O’Neill
1:10-1:30 – The importance of tracking water chestnut treatments over time – Steve Pearson, NYS Department of Environmental Conservation
1:30-2:00 – How to document Water Chestnut removals in iMapInvasives – Mitchell O’Neill, New York Natural Heritage Program – iMapInvasives
2:00-3:00 – PRISM Region Breakout Sessions

Hemlock Conservation & Management- In the Path of Hemlock Woolly Adelgid
2023-03-08 13:00 - 14:00
Hemlock woolly adelgid (HWA) is an invasive insect that is killing hemlock trees and threatening the health of our forests. Although only the size of a sesame seed, HWA will have a big impact on our forests. The good news is that there are conservation and management strategies you can implement to protect hemlock trees. This webinar will discuss short-term and long-term HWA control options, hemlock conservation strategies, and approaches to secure funding for hemlock conservation that have worked in other parts of the state at a watershed scale. We will also cover regional and state-wide volunteer opportunities to help slow the spread of this threat to our forests.
March 8th, 2023
1 PM – 2 PM EST
Via Zoom
REGISTER
Presented By:
Caroline Marschner
Invasive Species Extension Associate
Caroline’s background is in general ecology, with experience in forest, prairie, riparian, and lacustrine ecosystems. She received her bachelor’s degree in environmental biology from Colorado College in 1998, and her master’s degree in environmental science from Miami University in 2003. Caroline has been with NYSHI since 2015, where she coordinates NYSHI’s outreach efforts, works with partners to facilitate conservation planning, and assists with program management.
Megan Pistolese- Shaw
Education, Outreach, and Communications Coordinator
SLELO PRISM
Megan Pistolese-Shaw holds a Bachelor of Science Degree focused on Ecology, Environmental Education, and Sustainability from Empire State College. She is experienced with aquatic and terrestrial invasive species identification, impacts, modes of introduction, prevention and management methods. She is the Education, Outreach, and Communications Coordinator with the St. Lawrence Eastern Lake Ontario Partnership for Regional Invasive Species Management (SLELO PRISM). Through this role, she leads invasive species outreach initiatives and programming throughout the five counties of Oneida, Oswego, Jefferson, Lewis, and St. Lawrence.

Eastern Lake Ontario Swallow Wort Collaboative Webinar
2023-02-13 13:00 - 14:00
Hosted by SLELO PRISM’s Eastern Lake Ontario Swallow Wort Collaborative (ELOSC) please join us on Monday, February 13th from 1 pm-2 pm for an informative webinar
This webinar will share SLELO PRISM’s hypena opulenta release and survey history, along with plans to enhance H. opulenta overwintering surveying efforts through partner and volunteer engagement; Thousand Island Land Trust will also be sharing the history and management practices of swallow-wort control conducted on Carleton Island.
Presenters:
Robert Smith-SLELO PRISM Terrestrial Restoration and Resiliency Coordinator
Robert Smith holds a Master of Science from SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry and brings with him extensive experience in terrestrial invasive species identification and management including ecosystem restoration and dendrology. Robert serves as the SLELO PRISM Terrestrial Restoration and Resiliency Coordinator.
Jake Tibbles- TILT Executive Director
Jake Tibbles has worked for over 15 years to conserve and manage some of the most treasured landscapes in the Thousand Islands & St. Lawrence River Valley region. Appointed Executive Director of the Thousand Islands Land Trust (TILT) in 2012, he’s overseen TILT’s Renewal of Accreditation by the Land Trust Alliance Accreditation Commission, and TILT’s growth in conserved lands, educational programming, and staffing. Jake also sits on the New York Land Trust Alliance Advisory Board and recently served on the Board of American Friends of Canadian Land Trusts.
Spencer Busler-TILT Assistant Director/ Director of Land Conservation
Spencer joined TILT in 2016 as Director of Land Conservation. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Natural Resources Management from the SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry as well as a master’s degree in Water and Wetland Resource Studies from the same institution.
REGISTER

Native Alternatives for Common Invasive Garden Plants
2023-02-08 11:30 - 12:30
Winter is a good time to start planning for your garden. Selecting what plants you will grow can be exciting but you could be playing a role in the introduction of invasive plants. Many invasive plants were once considered desirable ornamentals that were intentionally introduced to gardens and landscapes only to escape into our natural environments. You can play a vital role in the introduction and prevention of invasive plants by choosing to grow native species and taking action to control invasives you may find on your property.
On Wednesday, February 8th from 11:30 AM- 12:30 PM EST community members can join an informative webinar hosted by the Genesee Land Trust featuring The Nature Conservancy’s SLELO PRISM-an invasive species management program. The webinar will discuss native alternatives to common invasive garden plants, the benefits of native plants, general control methods, and a Pledge to Protect you can take to protect your garden and favorite outdoor spaces from invasive species.
REGISTER
Presented by: Megan Pistolese-Shaw-SLELO PRISM Education, Outreach and Communications Coordinator
Megan Pistolese-Shaw holds a Bachelor of Science Degree focused on Ecology, Environmental Education, and Sustainability from Empire State College. She is experienced with aquatic and terrestrial invasive species identification, impacts, modes of introduction, prevention and management methods. She is the Education/Outreach and Communications Coordinator with the St. Lawrence Eastern Lake Ontario Partnership for Regional Invasive Species Management. Through this role, she leads invasive species outreach initiatives, communications and programming throughout the five counties of Oneida, Oswego, Jefferson, Lewis, and St. Lawrence counties.

Winter Environmental Conference
2023-01-28 10:00 - 16:00 | 1000 Islands Harbor Hotel, 200 Riverside Drive • Clayton, NY 13624
Join our partners with Save the River for their annual Winter Environmental Conference to be held on Saturday, January 28th, 2023 at the 1000 Islands Harbor Hotel in Clayton, NY from 10:00 am – 4:00 pm.
Save The River’s Winter Environmental Conference is a regionally significant and well-attended event held every winter for over a quarter of a century. Every year year-round and seasonal residents, elected officials, community members, and local leaders come to Clayton to hear from national and regional policymakers, scientists, leaders, and students about topics of critical importance to the health of the St. Lawrence River.
Details and Registration

Spotted Lanternfly and the Potential Impacts on the Maple Syrup Industry
2022-11-16 10:00 - 11:00
Hosted by the Penn State Extension, Educator Brian Walsh, will discuss what is known about the spotted lanternfly and observations about maple trees that provide insight as to the impact the insect could have on the industry.
Ever since the spotted lanternfly was found in Southeast Pennsylvania, it has been causing damage to agricultural plants as well as non-agricultural plants. As the insect continues to expand its range, more is being learned about the insect’s lifecycle and its feeding habitats. Since the spotted lanternfly can feed very heavily upon certain tree species, the insect can potentially impact the maple syrup industry.
This event is being offered at no charge to participants. Registration is required to receive the link to access the webinar. Registrants will also receive access to the webinar recording.
Wednesday, November 16th, 2022
10 AM- 11 AM ET
REGISTER
Who is this for?

Maple Syrup Producers
Maple Researchers

What will you learn?

Life Cycle of the Spotted Lanternfly
Impacts on Maple and Other Tree Species
Potential Impacts on the Maple Industry

Elm Zigzag Sawfly is Here, Now What?
2022-10-24 13:00 - 14:00
The elm zigzag sawfly has recently been discovered for the first time in New York State in St. Lawrence County. Three dead specimens were confirmed at Wildland in Brasher Falls in St. Lawrence County. Feeding patterns, characteristic of the elm zigzag sawfly, have also been reported at three locations in St. Lawrence County, the Brasher State Forest, Wilson Hill WMA, and the St. Lawrence State Park.
This webinar will provide an overview of the elm zigzag sawfly, survey efforts that have occurred, and next steps including an early detection effort in which partners and community members can join.
When: Monday, October 24th, 1 pm-2 pm EST
Via Zoom: Register to get the link
Presenters:
Thom Allgaier- Invasive Species Coordinator with NYS AGM
Jessica Cancelliere- Forest Health Specialist with NYS DEC
Megan Pistolese-Shaw- SLELO PRISM

Working with Nature for Shorelines Workshop and Tour
2022-10-21 13:00 - 16:00
Join our partners with the New York Sea Grant (NYSG) for an informative workshop from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Friday, October 21, 2022, to provide shoreline residents and contractors an overview of shoreline management techniques with a concentration on the use of natural and nature-based features. NYSG has organized the free “Working with Nature for Shorelines” workshop in cooperation with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), New York State Department of State (DOS), Save The River, and Jefferson County Soil and Water Conservation District. Funding for the workshop has been provided by DEC. Register by October 14 at https://bit.ly/3QyhWyW or call NYSG at 315-312-3042 for assistance.
Workshop presentations will include an introduction to nature-based shorelines, site visits and the DEC shoreline permitting process, overviews of local Coastal Lakeshore Economy and Resiliency Initiative (CLEAR) projects, funding sources, and volunteer opportunities. Speakers include NYSG Coastal Processes and Hazards Specialist Roy Widrig, author of Working with Nature: A Guide to Native Plants for New York’s Great Lakes Shorelines.” An optional shoreline tour of ongoing nature-based shoreline restoration at Lyme Town Park will follow the workshop.
New York Sea Grant is a cooperative program of Cornell University and the State University of New York and one of 34 university-based programs in the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration National Sea Grant College Program. Since 1971, NYSG has been “bringing science to the shore” through a network of integrated research, education, and extension services promoting environmental sustainability, coastal community economic vitality, and citizen awareness of New York’s freshwater and marine resources. Learn more at www.nyseagrant.org.
WHAT: Working with Nature for Shorelines Workshop and Tour
WHERE: Lyme Free Library, 12165 State Route 12 E, Chaumont, New York
WHEN: Friday, October 21, 2022; 1-4 p.m.
COST: Free
REGISTRATION DEADLINE: October 14, 2022
HOW to REGISTER: Online at https://bit.ly/3QyhWyW or call 315-312-3042 for assistance

Adirondack Invasive Species Summit
2022-10-19 09:00 - 16:30
Join our partners at APIPP, and the Adirondack Experience: The Museum on Blue Mountain Lake, for the Invasive Species at Our Door: Adirondack Invasive Species Summit. This free, day-long event will focus on the threat and the opportunity to manage two invasive species that have the potential to dramatically impact Adirondack forests and freshwater ecosystems—hemlock woolly adelgid (HWA) and hydrilla.
The summit will feature some of the region’s experts on HWA, a forest pest that is taking hold in the Lake George region. HWA panelists include David Orwig, Senior Ecologist and Forest Ecologist from Harvard Forest; Gary Lovett, Senior Scientist for the Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies; and Mark Whitmore, Director of the New York State Hemlock Initiative for Cornell University. The featured speakers will talk about the impact HWA may have on Adirondack forest ecosystems and the carbon sequestration potential of our forests, as well as how to manage hemlock to reduce these impacts. Speakers will also address the potential for biocontrols to help in the fight against HWA. Following the presentations, participants will have a chance to discuss the implications for the Adirondacks if HWA is here to stay.
The summit is also a chance to learn more about hydrilla, an aquatic invasive species that is present in other regions of New York. Meg Modley, Aquatic Invasive Species Management Coordinator for the Lake Champlain Basin Program, will provide an introduction to hydrilla, and cover the plant’s current infestation locations and how its presence could impact the Adirondacks. Dr. Susan Wilde, Associate Professor with the University of Georgia, who recently discovered a link between a bacteria connected with hydrilla and the death of eagles in the Southeast, will discuss her groundbreaking research. The Army Corps of Engineers will share the latest best management practices for managing hydrilla and Bill Brosseau, Stewardship Director for the Paul Smith’s College Adirondack Watershed Institute, will discuss Adirondack hydrilla prevention programs. Following the presentations, participants will have a chance to discuss what we can do to prevent or prepare for infestations of hydrilla in the Adirondacks.
The summit will be held at the Adirondack Experience, the Museum on Blue Mountain Lake located at, 9097 Route 30, Blue Mountain Lake, NY 12812. There is no charge to attend, but space is limited so you must pre-register.
The Society of American Foresters has approved 5 hours of Category 1 Continuing Forestry Education credits for this workshop. Participants who desire credits must attend the entire event.
Participants are kindly expected to wear masks when indoors at the Museum. For those who cannot attend in person, presentations will be live-streamed on Facebook (or a similar platform); however, viewers will not be able to participate in the discussions. (The Livestream will be recorded, but audio and visual quality may be variable.)

Comparative Approaches to Aquatic Invasive Species Management
2022-10-06 12:00 - 13:00
This event is jointly sponsored by the Québec government office in Chicago and Marquette University’s Water Law and Policy Initiative. It is presented in conjunction with Current’s Chicago Water Week 2022.
The conversation is expected to cover invasive species management approaches in a variety of contexts, including the effort to prevent invasive carp from entering the Great Lakes. Experts from both sides of the border will participate, including:

Colleen Callahan, Director, Illinois Department of Natural Resources
Annick Drouin, Ph.D., Aquatic Invasive Species Coordinator for the Québec Government
Moderator: Kerith Brand, Public and Governmental Affairs Attachée, Québec Government Office in Chicago
Introduction by David Strifling, Director, Marquette University Water Law and Policy Initiative

The event is free to attend and open to the public. REGISTER
NOTE: The link to join the virtual meeting will not be visible until 24 hours prior to the event. To join the event, click the link within the reminder email you receive on the day of the event. If you do not already have one, you will need to create an Eventbrite account (it takes less than a minute and be sure to use your Eventbrite account email address to register for this event).
Questions? Contact Professor David A. Strifling at david.strifling@marquette.edu or 414.288.8036

Hike to Protect Beech Trees
2022-09-20 13:00 - 15:00 | Joseph Blake Wildlife Sanctuary 31827 Middle Rd, Watertown, NY 13601, 31827 Middle Rd, Watertown, NY, 13601, United States
Enjoy a guided walk in the woods, and learn to recognize and report the newest threat to American Beech Trees: Beech Leaf Disease (BLD). Tug Hill Tomorrow Land Trust (THTLT), the St. Lawrence-Eastern Lake Ontario Partnership for Regional Invasive Species Management (SLELO PRISM), and NYS DEC Forest Health Specialist Maria MoskaLee will lead the program.
BLD is spreading rapidly across the Northeastern U.S. and Canada, affecting and killing both native and ornamental beech tree species. Associated with a nematode whose presence is thought to cause leaf disfiguration including striping and curling. Young trees can die in less than five years after the first signs of damage appear. BLD has only been discovered in recent years. In 2022, it has been found in 15 new counties in New York, for a total of 35 infected counties. It was recently found in Oswego County in the SLELO region, and nearby on the southwestern edge of the Adirondacks.
Tuesday, September 20th
1pm-3pm
Joseph A Blake Wildlife Sanctuary
REGISTER
Registration is required no later than 8 pm on Monday, September 19th.
Prior to attending, participants should follow these steps to be able to report observations and aid state-wide early detection efforts:

Make a Free iMapInvasives User Account
Download the Free iMapInvasives Mobile App

Forest Pest Hunters: Surveying for Beech Leaf Disease
2022-09-15 10:00 - 11:30
Join our partners at the Adirondack Park Invasive Plant Program (APIPP) for a free webinar from 10:00-11:30 am on Thursday, September 15, to learn about beech leaf disease (BLD) and how you can help survey for it in the Adirondack region.
BLD was first detected in Ohio in 2012 and in New York State in 2018. In 2022, the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC) confirmed the presence of beech leaf disease in over 30 counties in New York including Herkimer County, the first infestation in the APIPP PRISM. Little is known about BLD, and researchers are still trying to determine its cause and how it spreads.
DEC Forest Health Specialist Maria MoskaLee will shed some light on BLD with a discussion on BLD history, identification and lookalikes, and research. APIPP Terrestrial Invasive Species Coordinator Becca Bernacki will cover basic survey techniques and how you can sign up to adopt a trail to survey, and DEC End User Support Specialist Mitchell O’Neill will review the iMapInvasives app, which can be used to report the presence of BLD.
The Society of American Foresters has approved 1.5 hours of Category 1 Continuing Forestry Education credits for this workshop. Participants who desire credits must attend the entire webinar.
Free Webinar
Thursday, September 15th
10am-11:30am
REGISTER
