Learn to Identify, Map, and Manage Maine's Invasive Plants

Join Chad Hammer, Invasive Plant Biologist with the Wildlife Diversity Section, Ecology Group at the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, and Jared Gregory, Maine Forest Service District Forester, for an engaging workshop focused on invasive plant identification, impacts, and management strategies. This workshop combines classroom learning with hands-on field experience, providing practical information and techniques that can be applied on your property.

Date: Tuesday, October 6th, 2026
Time: 10:15 AM – 3:15 PM Please be prepared to bring your own lunch. We are looking at options and will have an update soon!
Location: Viles Arboretum at 153 Hospital St in Augusta, ME – Meet in the Education Barn
Cost: Free! Recommended donation of $15 but not required. Donations help support future educational programming.
Registration Deadline: October 2, 2026

Classroom Session:
Learn how invasive plants are identified, how they spread, and the impacts they have on Maine's landscapes. Explore practical management approaches, Early Detection/Rapid Response (EDRR), and tools like iMapInvasives. The session will also include information about the Maine Forest Service WoodsWise Program and available forestry resources.

Invasive Plant Walk & Talk:
Explore invasive plants in the field during a guided walk at Viles Arboretum. Participants will learn to identify invasive species, see real examples of how invasive plants spread, and discuss practical management approaches through demonstrations of control techniques.

Topics will include:

Invasive plant identification, impacts, and spread patterns
Early Detection/Rapid Response (EDRR)
Integrated management and control options
Practical invasive plant management techniques
iMapInvasives mapping tools
Maine Forest Service WoodsWise Program and forestry resources

All attendees will receive a free Maine Invasive Plants - Field Guide!

This free program is brought to you by Kennebec County Soil & Water Conservation District and Viles Arboretum, partnering with Maine Forest Service and Maine Natural Areas Program. Additional partners include Maine Tree Farm, Maine Woodland Owners, and Kennebec Woodland Partnership

Invasive Plant Workshop

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