Have you heard about Hemlock Woolly Adelgid (HWA), Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) and Asian Long-horned Beetle (ALB)? Would you like to know more about these invasive forest pests that have been found within the state and local region? Come join the WNY PRISM and the Roger Tory Peterson Institute of Natural History (RTPI) for an informational forest pest early detection training from 12:30PM-4:30PM on Monday, February 23. Topics covered will include the impacts of each forest pest as well as how to identify each invasive insect, signs and symptoms of an infestation and what to do if you find any of them in your backyard, favorite hiking spot or beyond. The training will also incorporate protocols used to survey specifically for HWA and a field outing to look for its presence on the RTPI and nearby Jamestown Community College campus woodlot. Attendees planning to participate in the survey portion of the training should dress appropriately for weather conditions. The terrain that will be covered will be relatively flat, but attendees should be prepared to walk off trail and possibly in deep snow. Reservations are appreciated and can be sent with any questions to RTPI Conservation Technician Elyse Henshaw: ehenshaw@rtpi.org. The training will take place at RTPI – 311 Curtis St., Jamestown, NY 14701.
