MAKANDA, Ill.— Extension will host a free program on the winter identification of invasive species on Dec. 14. Even during the dormant winter season, invasive plants species are major threats to the forests and grasslands of southern Illinois. They can outcompete native species, decrease wildlife habitat, increase management costs and limit tree growth and regeneration. Invasive species may be easy to identify during the growing season when their leaves and flowers are visible; however, what happens in the winter when these plants have gone dormant and the leaves and flowers are long gone?

Join Extension Foresters Kevin Rohling and Chris Evans as they discuss winter identification of invasive plants and how it can benefit you with invasive species management. This course will take place on Saturday, Dec.14 at 10:00 a.m. at the Giant City State Park Visitors Center at 1-245 Giant City Rd., Makanda, IL. A portion of this class will be held outdoors, so please dress accordingly.

This program is free to the public but registration is required and seating is limited. To register, visit: go.illinois.edu/winterinvasives2019 or call Maggie Ray at (618) 687-1727.

University of Illinois Extension provides equal opportunities in programs and employment. If you need a reasonable accommodation to participate in programming, contact (618) 687-1727. Early requests are strongly encouraged to allow sufficient time for meeting your needs.

News Source: Maggie Ray (618) 687-1727, mro@illinois.edu

News Writer: Heather Willis (618) 357-2126, hdwillis@illinois.edu