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Invasive Species Symposium
Explore the latest invasive species research updates, learn about management options, celebrate success stories, network with colleagues, and ask questions at the annual Illinois Invasive Species Symposium hosted by University of Illinois Extension.
2026 Illinois Invasive Species Symposium
May 28, 9:30 AM - 3:30 PM
Champaign County Extension Office
University researchers, students, and industry professionals will present on emerging invasive species threats, management options, and more. The symposium concludes with a Q&A panel discussion on the state of invasive species in Illinois.
The event is open to industry professionals, students, landowners and managers, farmers, foresters, volunteers, and environmental stewards. A limited number of seats are available. Lunch is included in the $25 registration.
For more information or if you need a reasonable accommodation to participate, contact Karla Griesbaum at 217-333-7672 or kherzma2@illinois.edu.
Topics
Invasive Species Language: Getting on the same page. Presenter: Chris Evans, forestry Extension and research specialist.
Are contaminants deterring the upstream movement of silver carp in the Illinois River? Presenter: Cory Suski, Natural Resources & Environmental Sciences professor, University of Illinois.
Identifying and using aggressive native species for quick succession to a more suitable habitat. Presenter: Kelsay Shaw, Owner and Botanist at Possibility Place Nursery.
Long-term effects of fire on Microstegium vimineum demography and seed bank dynamics in Central Hardwood Forests. Presenter: Kayla Morrison, M.S. candidate, University of Illinois.
Oak Regeneration in Microstegium vimineum-Invaded Stands Along a Fire Activity Gradient. Presenter: Jen Fraterrigo, Natural Resources Environmental Sciences Professor, University of Illinois.
Efficacy of Drone-based Herbicide Applications for Priority Invasive Plants. Presenter: Kevin Rohling, Extension Specialist, Forest Management and Ecology.
Update on Swede Midge. Presenter: Kacey Athey, Associate Professor, Crop Sciences, University of Illinois.
Livestock inspections facilitate monitoring of the geographic spread of native and invasive tick species. Presenter: Teresa Steckler, Extension Specialist, Commercial Agriculture.
Aedes albopictus and the Mosquito Ambassador Program. Presenter: Kylie Noel, Postdoc research associate, University of Illinois.
The Management of Terrestrial Invasives: Q&A Panel Discussion. Panel: John Griesbaum, INPC, Michelle Simone, IDNR Department of Heritage, and Terry Esker, IDNR Department of Heritage.
Resources to Manage Invasive Species
Invasives have big environmental and economic impacts. The prairie state is home to beautiful wild spaces, but invasive species are a growing threat in our forests, lakes, backyards, and agricultural fields. Explore how to prevent the spread of invasive species with everyday activities and steps you can take to keep your land beautiful and healthy by controlling plant, insect, and aquatic infestations.