BEGIN:VCALENDAR
VERSION:2.0
PRODID:-//NAISMA - ECPv6.15.17//NONSGML v1.0//EN
CALSCALE:GREGORIAN
METHOD:PUBLISH
X-WR-CALNAME:NAISMA
X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://naisma.org
X-WR-CALDESC:Events for NAISMA
REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H
X-Robots-Tag:noindex
X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H
BEGIN:VTIMEZONE
TZID:America/Chicago
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:-0600
TZOFFSETTO:-0500
TZNAME:CDT
DTSTART:20240310T080000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:-0500
TZOFFSETTO:-0600
TZNAME:CST
DTSTART:20241103T070000
END:STANDARD
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:-0600
TZOFFSETTO:-0500
TZNAME:CDT
DTSTART:20250309T080000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:-0500
TZOFFSETTO:-0600
TZNAME:CST
DTSTART:20251102T070000
END:STANDARD
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:-0600
TZOFFSETTO:-0500
TZNAME:CDT
DTSTART:20260308T080000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:-0500
TZOFFSETTO:-0600
TZNAME:CST
DTSTART:20261101T070000
END:STANDARD
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:-0600
TZOFFSETTO:-0500
TZNAME:CDT
DTSTART:20270314T080000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:-0500
TZOFFSETTO:-0600
TZNAME:CST
DTSTART:20271107T070000
END:STANDARD
END:VTIMEZONE
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260227T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260227T140000
DTSTAMP:20260917T095924
CREATED:20260107T141808Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260107T141949Z
UID:137116-1772197200-1772200800@naisma.org
SUMMARY:NISAW Webinar: Invasive Species Threaten American Food Security
DESCRIPTION:Invasive species pose a growing and often underrecognized threat to American food security\, public health\, and economic stability. This webinar will present key findings from a white paper developed by the Invasive Species Advisory Committee (ISAC)\, which outlines how invasive animals\, plants\, and pathogens directly threaten the food security\, prosperity\, health\, and safety of the American people. \n\n\n\nThe presentation will examine how invasive species damage and disrupt farmland\, livestock\, crops\, fisheries\, aquaculture\, and hunting\, fishing\, and subsistence food systems. These impacts ripple outward\, affecting jobs\, rural economies\, and the industries that support farming and ranching communities across U.S. states and territories. \n\n\n\nBy highlighting ISAC’s recommendations to federal partners\, this session will underscore the importance of strategic investment in prevention\, early detection\, and coordinated response. These actions are essential not only for protecting agricultural productivity\, but also for defending community health\, strengthening food systems\, and reducing long term risks associated with invasive species spread. \n\n\n\n\nREGISTER NOW\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nMeghan Brown\, Administrator Plant Health and Compliance\, Nevada Department of AgricultureMeghan moved to Elko\, Nevada after graduating university to work for the Nevada Cattlemen’s Association as their Executive Director. Meghan then worked for Congressman Mark Amodei as his Rural Representative\, with a focus on federal land issues and oversight of regulation that affected the rural fabric of the west. Meghan joined the Nevada Department of Agriculture in 2016 and is currently serving as the Administrator for the Division of Plant Health and Compliance. She serves the agricultural community in Nevada through engagement on issues ranging from invasive species\, native seed development\, and establishment of the regional Early Detection and Rapid Response Network.
URL:https://naisma.org/event/nisaw-webinar-invasive-species-threaten-american-food-security/
CATEGORIES:NISAW,Webinars
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://naisma.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/iStock-2184817491fs.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260226T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260226T140000
DTSTAMP:20260917T095924
CREATED:20251219T133022Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260226T125149Z
UID:137035-1772110800-1772114400@naisma.org
SUMMARY:NISAW Webinar: The Surprising Intersection between Marine Invasive Species and Public Health
DESCRIPTION:From the introduction of deadly microbes into seafood to the clogging of cooling systems of a nuclear power plant\, marine invasive species are more than just costly pests that harm food webs. This talk will explore some of the surprising ways that marine invasive species impact our health\, and summarize a new white paper from the Invasive Species Advisory Committee\, advising federal agencies on “Opportunities to Improve Marine Biosecurity“. \n\n\n\n\nREGISTER\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nChristy Martin\, Program Manager & Information Officer\, Coordinating Group on Alien Pest Species (CGAPS)\, University of Hawaii at Manoa – Pacific Cooperative Studies UnitChristy Martin has worked on terrestrial and marine invasive species issues in Hawai‘i and the Pacific region for more than 25 years. She is the Program Manager & Information Officer for the Coordinating Group on Alien Pest Species (CGAPS\, pronounced “see-gaps”)\, a partnership of agencies and organizations working to protect Hawaii from the impacts of invasive species. In 2022\, Christy was appointed to Invasive Species Advisory Committee (ISAC)\, which provides information and advice for consideration by the National Invasive Species Council\, and was reappointed in 2025 as ISAC Chair where she co-led the development of a white paper on marine biosecurity.
URL:https://naisma.org/event/nisaw-webinar-the-surprising-intersection-of-marine-biosecurity-and-public-health/
CATEGORIES:NISAW,Webinars
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://naisma.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/nisaw22.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260226T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260226T150000
DTSTAMP:20260917T095924
CREATED:20260220T133815Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260220T134016Z
UID:137831-1772092800-1772118000@naisma.org
SUMMARY:15th Annual Columbia Gorge Invasive Species and Exotic Pest Workshop
DESCRIPTION:Don’t get lost in the weeds! Stay informed-attend the 15th Annual ISEP! \n\n\n\nBack by popular demand! The Columbia Gorge Cooperative Weed Management Area (CWMA) is hosting its 15th Annual Columbia Gorge Invasive Species and Exotic Pest Workshop! This event is designed to provide information on invasive species management to land managers and the interested public. Learn about new pests and management strategies in Washington\, make connections and participate in our invasive species quiz! We are thrilled to once again host the event in person at Skamania County’s Hegewald Center! The event agenda is posted below. \n\n\n\n\nLEARN MORE\n\n\n\n\nPlease note: \n\n\n\n\nLunch will not be provided at the event\, so please bring a lunch or plan on eating at one of Stevenson’s local restaurants during the break.\n\n\n\nOn the day of the event\, please park behind the Hegewald Center near the Skamania County Fairgrounds; parking is not allowed in the front of the building.\n\n\n\nThere will be no refunds issued due to inclement weather. Attendees can receive refunds up to one week prior to the event date.\n\n\n\n\nRecertification Credits\n\n\n\nOregon Department of Agriculture (ODA) – (pending review) \n\n\n\nWashington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA) – (pending review) \n\n\n\nDisclaimer: Any and all materials\, presentations\, or discussions pertaining to pesticide use or safety should be considered non-technical in nature and should not be construed as advice. Anyone using or planning to use any pesticides is responsible for their actions and should review and follow all label recommendations at all times.
URL:https://www.eventbrite.com/e/15th-annual-columbia-gorge-invasive-species-and-exotic-pest-workshop-tickets-1980033192580?aff=oddtdtcreator
CATEGORIES:NISAW
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://naisma.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/image.webp
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260225T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260225T140000
DTSTAMP:20260917T095924
CREATED:20260107T135547Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260223T174231Z
UID:137111-1772024400-1772028000@naisma.org
SUMMARY:NISAW Webinar: Current Situation of the New World Screwworm in Mexico
DESCRIPTION:The New World screwworm remains one of the most serious transboundary threats to animal health\, livelihoods\, and public health in the Americas. In this webinar\, participants will learn about the current situation of the New World screwworm in Mexico and the actions being carried out to prevent its spread and protect both livestock and people. \n\n\n\nThis presentation will outline Mexico’s national control efforts\, including surveillance\, response strategies\, and coordination among veterinary\, agricultural\, and regulatory agencies. Attendees will hear about the results achieved to date and how early detection\, rapid intervention\, and sustained management are critical to limiting impacts. \n\n\n\nBeyond economic losses\, New World screwworm infestations pose direct risks to animal welfare and human health. The larvae can infest wounds in livestock\, wildlife\, pets\, and humans\, causing severe tissue damage and\, in untreated cases\, life threatening complications. By highlighting Mexico’s ongoing control actions\, this webinar underscores the importance of invasive species prevention and response as a frontline defense for public health\, food security\, and cross border biosecurity. \n\n\n\n\nREGISTER NOW\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nGabriel Ayala-Borunda\, Director General of Animal Health\, of the National Service for Health\, Safety and Agri-Food Quality (SENASICA) in MexicoGabriel Ayala-Borunda is a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine with a Master’s degree in Microbiology and serves as Director General of Animal Health at the National Service for Health\, Safety and Agri-Food Quality (SENASICA) in Mexico. He has extensive experience in animal health research; the evaluation and implementation of animal and plant health and safety programs; and the national coordination of federal programs addressing animal diseases such as bovine tuberculosis\, brucellosis\, rabies in bovines and other susceptible species\, and tick control. He has served as a consultant on projects for the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations\, the Inter-American Development Bank\, and the Trade Agreement between Mexico and the European Union\, and has worked as a private advisor to dairy production units in northern Mexico.
URL:https://naisma.org/event/nisaw-webinar-current-situation-of-the-new-world-screwworm-in-mexico/
CATEGORIES:NISAW,Webinars
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://naisma.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/iStock-2188801605sw-1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260224T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260224T140000
DTSTAMP:20260917T095924
CREATED:20260107T134752Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260223T174152Z
UID:137106-1771938000-1771941600@naisma.org
SUMMARY:NISAW Webinar: Alberta Wild Boar Control Program: Challenges and Successes
DESCRIPTION:Wild boar are among the most destructive invasive mammals in North America\, posing serious risks to agriculture\, ecosystems\, and human health. In this webinar\, participants will gain an inside look at the Alberta Wild Boar Control Program and the coordinated efforts underway to eliminate this invasive species from the province. \n\n\n\nThe presentation will provide an overview of recent regulatory changes\, field operations\, and cross jurisdictional collaborations that support Alberta’s approach to wild boar control. Attendees will learn about the unique challenges associated with detecting and eradicating wild boar populations\, including their high reproductive capacity\, adaptability\, and ability to evade traditional management techniques. The speaker will also highlight key successes achieved through strategic planning\, innovation\, and partnership\, and discuss what comes next for the program. \n\n\n\nImportantly\, this session will connect wild boar management to broader public health protection. Wild boar can carry and spread diseases such as African swine fever\, brucellosis\, and other zoonotic pathogens that threaten livestock\, food systems\, and human health. By focusing on prevention\, rapid response\, and sustained control\, Alberta’s program demonstrates how invasive species management plays a critical role in defending community health and reducing the risk of disease spread across landscapes and borders. \n\n\n\n\nREGISTER NOW\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nHannah McKenzie\, Wild Boar Specialist\, Alberta Agriculture and IrrigationHannah graduated from the University of Alberta with an MSc in Mathematical and Statistical Biology and an MSc in Applied Mathematics. Prior to taking on her current role as Wild Boar Specialist\, Hannah worked with the Alberta Aquatic Invasive Species program along with her K9 partner Seuss. Hannah employs her quantitative skills to make evidence-informed policy and program decisions.
URL:https://naisma.org/event/nisaw-webinar-alberta-wild-boar-control-program-challenges-and-successes/
CATEGORIES:NISAW,Webinars
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://naisma.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/iStock-2204668507fs2-1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260223T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260223T150000
DTSTAMP:20260917T095924
CREATED:20260112T175333Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260223T174127Z
UID:137181-1771851600-1771858800@naisma.org
SUMMARY:NISAW Webinar: USGS Invasive Species Science: Innovation for a Healthy Nation
DESCRIPTION:This webinar highlights how U.S. Geological Survey scientists are advancing innovative\, science based approaches to prevent\, detect\, and manage invasive species across diverse ecosystems. Presentations explore the role of invasion biology within a One Health framework\, emerging point of use environmental DNA tools for invasive species\, parasite\, and pathogen surveillance\, and the use of molecular techniques to understand wildlife and fish health. Speakers also examine applied research on contaminants and health effects in aquatic systems\, strategies to reduce wildfire risk from invasive vegetation in Hawaii\, and the development of acoustic deterrents to control invasive carp. Together\, these talks demonstrate how USGS research supports ecosystem resilience\, public health\, and natural resource management nationwide. \n\n\n\n\nREGISTER NOW\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nDr. Camille Hopkins\, Wildlife Disease Specialist\, USGS Biological Threats and Invasive Species ProgramCamille is the Wildlife Disease Specialist for the Ecosystems Mission Area. At USGS headquarters\, Camille coordinates national science efforts related to aquatic and terrestrial wildlife disease. Camille will be presenting on the: Role of Invasion Biology in a One Health Approach. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nDr. Katy Klymus\, Research Biologist\, USGS Columbia Environmental Research CenterSince joining the USGS in 2016\, Katy’s research focus has been on using genetic and genomic methods to inform wildlife species management. Currently she is studying environmental DNA methods\, how they can be used to assess current levels of and changes in biodiversity\, and development of standards for eDNA analyses. Katy will be presenting on the: Current Development of Point-of-Use eDNA Tools for Invasive Species\, Parasite\, and Pathogen Surveillance. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nDr. Heather Walsh\, Research Fish Biologist\, USGS Eastern Ecological Sciences CenterDr. Walsh has focused on developing molecular techniques to better understand mechanisms associated with disease in wild fish. To serve this purpose\, she has developed her skills in histopathology\, in situ hybridization techniques\, and laser capture microdissection. The use of these techniques has helped to understand disease observed during fish health assessments conducted in the Great Lakes and Chesapeake Bay (including the Susquehanna and Potomac River drainage). Dr. Walsh will be presenting on: Heavy Metals\, PFAS\, and Health Effects in Blue Catfish from the Patuxent River. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nDr. Michala Phillips\, Research Ecologist\, USGS Pacific Islands Ecosystems Research CenterMichala is passionate about using basic science to create knowledge that can be used to support sustainable restoration and management needs of ecosystems. She integrates community\, ecosystem\, plant and microbial ecology in her research by using statistical modeling to combine data from a diversity of approaches (field\, greenhouse\, sensor networks\, soil chemistry and molecular biology techniques). Her aim is to build a better understanding of community assembly and ecosystem processes following disturbances to inform restoration and adaptive land management efforts. Michala will be presenting on: Bridging Science and Practice to Reduce Fire Risk from Invasive Vegetation in Hawaiʻi. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nDr. Marybeth Brey\, Research Fish Biologist\, USGS Upper Midwest Environmental Sciences CenterFor the past five years\, Dr. Brey has conducted research on the movement dynamics of invasive Asian carps\, both with Southern Illinois University and with the USGS in La Crosse\, Wisconsin. Dr. Brey joined the USGS in 2015 and is currently responsible for conducting research related to movement dynamics of invasive Asian carps in the Illinois River and conducting all studies related to the use of underwater sound to deter invasive fishes in collaboration with the USACE-ERDC\, USGS-CERC\, and University of Minnesota-Duluth. Dr. Brey will be presenting on: Developing Acoustic Deterrents for Invasive Carp Control.
URL:https://naisma.org/event/nisaw-webinar-usgs-invasive-species-science-innovation-for-a-healthy-nation/
CATEGORIES:NISAW,Webinars
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://naisma.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/eDNA-detection-1-1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250228T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250228T140000
DTSTAMP:20260917T095924
CREATED:20250122T133223Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250224T192858Z
UID:124786-1740744000-1740751200@naisma.org
SUMMARY:NISAW Webinar: Strategic Prevention Initiatives - Having Impact at Multiple Scales
DESCRIPTION:This webinar will highlight examples of strategic and collaborative prevention projects supported by the Department of the Interior (DOI). Projects featured include recipients of DOI’s Notice of Funding Opportunity offered in 2022 to prevent the introduction and spread of invasive species through strategic landscape-level approaches. Presenters will provide an overview of progress made. \n\n\n\nPresentations and Speakers: \n\n\n\n\nRapid deployment of watercraft cleaning stations – Zach Burnside\, Wildlife ForeverThis presentation will detail the steps taken to work with local and state partners in the Columbia River Basin to install signage\, pavement markings\, and user-led watercraft cleaning stations at public access sites in the Columbia River Basin.\n\n\n\nStrengthening the California Islands biosecurity program to leverage outcomes for biosecurity on U.S. Department of the Interior Islands – Dr. Nick Holmes (The Nature Conservancy) and Annie LIttle (National Park Service)Annie Little and Nick Holmes will be presenting efforts to Strengthen the California Islands Biosecurity program including opportunities to leverage outcomes for biosecurity on US Department of the Interior Islands broadly.\n\n\n\nAn international approach to addressing aquatic invasive species in commerce – Leah Elwell (Conservation Collaborations\, LLC) and Stephanie Otts\, J.D. (National Sea Grant Law Center)Commerce in aquatic invasive species represents a significant pathway for their introduction and spread globally. This presentation will share multiple solutions to address key areas that lead to aquatic invasive species issues associated with commerce.\n\n\n\nPreventing the introduction and spread of invasive species through NAISMA’s strategic international prevention programs – Christie Trifone Millhouse\, NAISMANAISMA and our partners steward and implement international prevention programs\, including PlayCleanGo®: Stop Invasive Species In Your Tracks® and Certified Weed Free Products (WFP). These well-established prevention programs are aimed at stopping the spread of invasive species through specific human-assisted pathways. With funding received from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law\, NAISMA has taken significant steps to advance these campaigns.\n\n\n\n\n\nREGISTER NOW\n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nZach Burnside\, Invasive Species Program Manager\, Wildlife ForeverZach manages national Clean.Drain.Dry. Initiative outreach\, education\, and implementation of access-based cleaning solutions to empower the recreational boater and angler to do their part \n\n\n\nto prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nDr. Nick Holmes\, Associate Director of Oceans\, California Chapter of The Nature ConservancyNick lead’s TNC’s Island Resilience Strategy and works in thematic areas of island conservation\, invasive species management\, seabird restoration and threatened species recovery. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAnnie Little\, Supervisory Natural Resource Manager\, Channel Islands National Park\, National Park ServiceAnnie leads the terrestrial program for Channel Islands National Park. Her focus is the conservation of unique island ecosystems\, including eradication and control of invasive species\, habitat restoration\, and species recovery. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nLeah Elwell\, President\, Conservation Collaborations\, LLCLeah leads Conservation Collaborations\, LLC.\, that works with partners to identify solutions for invasive species and conservation issues. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nStephanie Otts\, J.D.\, Director\, National Sea Grant Law Center As Director\, Stephanie oversees a variety of legal education\, research\, and outreach activities and has conducted extensive research on legal issues related to invasive species management. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nChristie Trifone Millhouse\, Executive Director\, North American Invasive Species Management AssociationChristie serves as the Executive Director of the North American Invasive Species Management Association (NAISMA). With over 25 years of experience in the conservation sector\, Christie brings a wealth of knowledge and strategic vision to her leadership role. As Executive Director\, she oversees the development and implementation of innovative policies and programs that address invasive species management across North America. Her leadership is characterized by a commitment to fostering collaboration among diverse stakeholders\, including land and water resource managers\, agency directors\, and nonprofit organizations. Christie’s expertise and dedication ensure that NAISMA remains at the forefront of efforts to mitigate the impact of invasive species through education\, outreach\, and professional networking.
URL:https://naisma.org/event/nisaw-webinar-biosecurity-at-the-department-of-the-interior/
CATEGORIES:NISAW,Webinars
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://naisma.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/stratprev.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250228T103000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250228T113000
DTSTAMP:20260917T095924
CREATED:20250203T230609Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250203T231143Z
UID:125259-1740738600-1740742200@naisma.org
SUMMARY:NISAW Webinar: Operationalizing Collective Action for Pandemics\, Ecosystems\, and Community Resilience in 45 Countries: One Health\, Sustainable Development Goals and the OH-SMART tool
DESCRIPTION:Invasive species threaten our ecosystems\, our economy\, and our community’s health and well-being. Yet\, mitigating this threat is highly complex. Introduction and invasion of these species touch many agencies\, constituencies\, and sectors from the very local municipal and community level all the way to global governmental\, non-profit\, and private sector organizations. In addition\, each species that is introduced comes with a completely new array of stakeholders that must be engaged and coordinated to prevent or control invasion. This talk will discuss several models and tools that have successfully fostered collaborative action in 45 countries for addressing complex threats to communities and ecosystems including invasive species. \n\n\n\n\nREGISTER NOW\n\n\n\n\n  \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSpeaker: Dr. Katey Pelican\, Director\, Strategic Partnership and Research Collaborative and Co-Lead Systemwide University of Minnesota Sustainable Development Goals InitiativeDr. Pelican has worked in 45 countries to strengthen the multi sectoral systems needed to address the world’s most complex challenges in the integrative fields of One Health and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). She founded and directs the SPARC office (sparc.umn.edu) at U. Minnesota charged with establishing and growing large-scale\, interdisciplinary programs and projects. She founded and co-leads the system-wide SDG Initiative (sdg.umn.edu) to mobilize UMN to meet these 17 UN goals from the local to the global level. She also created the OH-SMART toolkit (oh-smart.umn.edu) that has improved multi-sectoral cooperation around complex challenges in the US and 29 countries globally.
URL:https://naisma.org/event/nisaw-webinar-operationalizing-collective-action-for-pandemics-ecosystems-and-community-resilience-in-45-countries-one-health-sustainable-development-goals-and-the-oh-smart-tool/
CATEGORIES:NISAW,Webinars
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://naisma.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/iStock-2181897384-3.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250228T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250228T103000
DTSTAMP:20260917T095924
CREATED:20250123T125954Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250227T174639Z
UID:124799-1740735000-1740738600@naisma.org
SUMMARY:NISAW Webinar: New World Screwworm 2025: Preparing for a U.S. Domestic Response
DESCRIPTION:With the movement of New World Screwworm northward through Central America since 2022 and into Mexico in November 2024\, the United States Department of Agriculture\, Veterinary Services is preparing to address domestic cases and outbreaks of NWS in animals as part of fortifying inspection processes along the United States’ southern border. Numerous preparedness activities including policy\, outreach and training for staff and stakeholders are planned and being delivered. \n\n\n\n\nREGISTER HERE\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSpeaker: Denise Bonilla\, Entomologist\, USDA APHIS \n\n\n\nFor the past 8 years\, Denise Bonilla has served as the USDA APHIS Strategy and Policy\, National Cattle Fever Tick Eradication Program Coordinator and a Veterinary Services Entomologist in Fort Collins\, Colorado. She holds a M.S. In Environmental Science and Policy Management from University of California\, Berkeley\, a M.S. in Biology from Georgia Southern University\, and a B.S. in Entomology from the University of Florida. Her background is in Medical and Veterinary Entomology. She has worked with lice\, mosquitoes\, bed bugs\, and specializes in ticks and tick-borne disease ecology. She is also a Veterinary Services subject matter expert for Cattle Fever Ticks\, New World Screwworm\, and the Asian longhorned tick.
URL:https://naisma.org/event/nisaw-webinar-new-world-screwworm-2025-preparing-for-a-u-s-domestic-response/
CATEGORIES:NISAW,Webinars
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://naisma.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/swork1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250227T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250227T153000
DTSTAMP:20260917T095924
CREATED:20250122T132800Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250227T125344Z
UID:124784-1740657600-1740670200@naisma.org
SUMMARY:NISAW Webinar: Biosecurity and the US. Army Corps of Engineers
DESCRIPTION:Explore the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ innovative approaches to biosecurity in this insightful webinar. Topics include the implementation of watercraft inspection stations\, the use of alligator weed flea beetles for biocontrol\, strategies for invasive carp protection\, and biocontrol measures to enhance border protection. Join us to learn how these efforts are safeguarding ecosystems and supporting national biosecurity goals. \n\n\n\n\nREGISTER NOW\n\n\n\n\nPresentations and Speakers:  \n\n\n\n\nUSACE’s Invasive Species Leadership – What’s It All About – Brianna Treichler\n\n\n\nBiological Control within USACE: Short- and Long-term Environmental and Economic Benefits – Nathan Harms\n\n\n\nConnecticut River Hydrilla Control Technology – Ben SperryHydrilla (Hydrilla verticillata) is a highly aggressive aquatic invasive plant that has invaded every region of the US. This plant forms dense stands that impede navigation and recreation\, alter water flow posing flood risk\, out-competes native plants\, alter water chemistry\, and degrades aquatic ecosystems. Additionally\, three distinct hydrilla genotypes have been introduced to the US since the 1950s. This presentation will discuss the past\, present\, and future R&D efforts by the US Army Engineer Research and Development Center’s for protecting US waterways from hydrilla invasions.\n\n\n\nJacksonville District Alligator Weed Flea Beetle Program – Chelsea BohatyThe Jacksonville District manages the Alligatorweed Biological Control Program; the presentation will go through the annual process to coordinate\, capture\, and distribute Alligatorweed Flea Beetles from Florida to other locations across the US; the service is free to requesting agencies and supports significant reductions in Alligatorweed infestations across the U.S. each year.\n\n\n\nAquatic Plant Control Watercraft Inspection and Decontamination Activities – Jonas Grundman\n\n\n\nRapid Response to Giant Salvinia in the St. Johns River Basin – Jessica Spencer\n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nChelsea Bohaty is a biologist in the Jacksonville District of the US Army Corps of Engineers with the Invasive Species Management Branch. She leads the Alligatorweed Biological Control Program to distribute alligatorweed flea beetles nationwide to help control invasive species. She and her colleagues employ integrated pest management to manage invasive plants throughout the state of Florida and beyond\, focusing on the St Johns River system and Lake Okeechobee. \n\n\n\n\n\nDr. Benjamin Sperry is a Research Biologist and Leader of the US Army Engineer Research and Development Center’s Aquatic Plant Management Team who conducts applied research to provide management solutions for aquatic plant control operations. His research focuses on aquatic and invasive plant management and he specializes in aquatic herbicide use-pattern develop for key invasive plants in the US. Dr. Sperry received his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of Florida in plant science and weed science\, respectively. He earned his Ph.D. in weed science from Mississippi State University. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nBrianna Treichler is a Natural Resource Specialist at U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE)\, Blue Marsh Lake Project in Leesport\, PA. She is the Partnership and Volunteer Coordinator at Blue Marsh Lake working with various state\, local\, educational\, and non-profit institutions on projects related to environmental stewardship and recreation. In her role\, one of her main focuses is integrating invasive species management practices into projects while also leading the Water Quality/Harmful Algal Bloom and Invasive Species Management programs. Brianna recently became the Chairperson for the USACE Invasive Species Leadership Team (ISLT)\, where she represents the USACE North Atlantic Division. Established in 2005\, the ISLT is comprised of various individuals and researchers to provide oversight and guidance to the Invasive Species Program throughout the Corps. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nJessica Spencer is an invasive species biologist working for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in the Jacksonville District for the Invasive Species Management Branch.  She has been in this position for 16 years\, developing invasive species management plans\, overseeing invasive species control contractors and collaborating with agency partners to address invasive species issues throughout the state of Florida\, as well as other district offices throughout the nation.  She currently holds a Pesticide Applicator License from the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.  She is an active member of the Florida Native Plant Society\, Florida Invasive Species Council\, Everglades Cooperative Invasive Species Management Area and the First Coast Invasive Working Group.
URL:https://naisma.org/event/nisaw-webinar-biosecurity-and-the-us-army-corps-of-engineers/
CATEGORIES:NISAW,Webinars
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://naisma.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/corps1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250226T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250226T150000
DTSTAMP:20260917T095924
CREATED:20250127T153738Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250212T124229Z
UID:125008-1740574800-1740582000@naisma.org
SUMMARY:NISAW Webinar: Strengthening Pacific Island Biosecurity: Insights to Slow the Spread of Invasive Species
DESCRIPTION:Join us for an informative webinar exploring strategies to protect Pacific Island ecosystems from invasive species. Experts will share insights into Pacific Islands Biosecurity\, explore the unique and important roles and challenges of Pacific Islands in preventing the spread of invasive species\, discuss efforts to build resilience through regional networks\, and present cutting-edge techniques like Strawberry Guava detection using aerial imagery and LiDAR data on Hawaiʻi Island. \n\n\n\n\nREGISTER NOW\n\n\n\n\nSpeakers\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nDr. Elliott Parsons\, Specialist\, Pacific Regional Invasive Species and Climate Change Management Network\, Pacific Islands Climate Adaptation Science Center at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa \n\n\n\nDr. Elliott Parsons is a specialist with the Pacific Regional Invasive Species and Climate Change (Pacific RISCC) Management Network at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa. He has worked with Pacific RISCC since 2022\, and he has almost 15 years of experience working in conservation\, management\, and research in Hawaiʻi. Dr. Parsons holds a Ph.D. in Fish & Wildlife Biology from the University of Montana and a B.A. in Anthropology at the University of California\, Santa Cruz\, and he most recently led the Nāpuʻu Conservation Project (NCP) at Puʻuwaʻawaʻa in North Kona for 12 years for the Hawaiʻi Department of Land and Natural Resources. In addition to his conservation work\, Dr. Parsons taught both undergraduate and graduate wildlife science courses at the University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo between 2016 and 2023. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nOlivia Jarvis\, Graduate Student at University of Hawai‘i at Hilo\, Research Assistant at the Spatial Data Analysis and Visualization (SDAV) LabOlivia Jarvis is currently a graduate student at the University of Hawai‘i at Hilo pursuing her Master’s of Science degree in Tropical Biology and Environmental Science. She recently earned her Bachelor’s of Science degree in Environmental Science from UH Hilo in 2022. Olivia’s thesis work is focused on exploring remote sensing methods such as RGB aerial imagery and LiDAR data to detect invasive strawberry guava trees on Hawai‘i Island. She is also currently working as a research assistant for the Spatial Data Analysis and Visualization lab at UH Hilo with her advisor Dr. Ryan Perroy. She supports other remote sensing work including photogrammetry with imagery taken via small unmanned aerial systems and helicopters\, invasive species detection with object detection machine learning\, and the deployment and monitoring of biocontrol for strawberry guava trees.
URL:https://naisma.org/event/nisaw-webinar-climate-change-and-invasives/
CATEGORIES:NISAW,Webinars
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://naisma.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/pac123.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250225T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250225T150000
DTSTAMP:20260917T095924
CREATED:20250203T224725Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250222T180310Z
UID:125236-1740492000-1740495600@naisma.org
SUMMARY:NISAW Webinar: Natural Security is National Security - Invasive Species and their Insidious Impacts on Critical Infrastructure
DESCRIPTION:Biological invasions may represent a larger threat to health\, economic\, and national security than natural disasters but are largely insidious and unappreciated threats. Recent estimates place the costs of invasive species as >$26B every year for the last decade in North America\, with significant costs coming from the food and agriculture; emergency services; and nuclear energy\, hydropower\, and other water dependent sectors – all essential components of U.S. critical infrastructure. Despite this\, collective awareness and action remains discouragingly low. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security and U.S. Department of Agriculture are working together and with other partners to amplify existing efforts to address this critical threat and develop new approaches to early warning and response. Collective work includes developing case studies to strengthen messaging; conducting exploratory analyses to develop shared priorities for action and identify opportunities to harmonize funding for capacity building; and strengthening early detection and response efforts. Effectively addressing invasive species requires a fuller appreciation of their direct national security impacts and an expansive\, multidisciplinary\, One Health approach to address the threat before it is too late. \n\n\n\n\nREGISTER NOW\n\n\n\n\nSpeakers: \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nMatthew Kuhn\, DVM\, Ph.D. – Veterinary Medical Officer with the Department of Homeland SecurityMatt Kuhn is a Veterinary Medical Officer with the Department of Homeland Security’s Office of Health Security. Dr. Kuhn first joined DHS in 2021 as a AAAS Science and Technology Policy Fellow\, supporting the Countering Weapons of Mass Destruction Office’s policy office on biodefense issues. Here\, he coordinated the Department’s input on topics such as the 2022 National Biodefense Strategy and re-writing and exercise of the BINA protocol. Matt has prior experience in the Department of Defense as a Deputy Senior Scientist providing technical and regulatory affairs support for Warfighter vaccine development. Matt graduated from Michigan State University with degrees in Animal Science (BS)\, Veterinary Medicine (DVM)\, and Immunology (PhD) and currently resides in Michigan. Matt is a father of two\, an avid Michigan State fan\, and looks forward every Spring to tapping his backyard trees to make real maple syrup.
URL:https://naisma.org/event/nisaw-webinar-natural-security-is-national-security-invasive-species-and-their-insidious-impacts-on-critical-infrastructure/
CATEGORIES:NISAW,Webinars
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://naisma.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/iStock-21557414212.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250225T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250225T140000
DTSTAMP:20260917T095924
CREATED:20250123T124857Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250221T161543Z
UID:124793-1740484800-1740492000@naisma.org
SUMMARY:NISAW Webinar: USGS Research Partnerships Enhancing Biosecurity to Reduce Risks of Invasive Species
DESCRIPTION:Join us for an engaging webinar exploring innovative biosecurity efforts led by the United States Geological Survey. Topics include the use of airborne rapid eDNA technology in the Pacific Islands\, building effective partnerships to strengthen Pacific biosecurity\, evaluating the biosecurity benefits of boot brush stations\, and addressing the threats posed by exotic annual grasses to the western drylands. Discover how these cutting-edge initiatives are helping to protect ecosystems across diverse landscapes. \n\n\n\n\nREGISTER NOW\n\n\n\n\nAbstracts & Speakers \n\n\n\nCargo shipments represent one of the primary means for accidental introduction of invasive species to remote islands in the Pacific. Visual inspections can be challenging because of the complexity of different types of cargo and the small size of many invasive species of concern\, particularly insects. Environmental DNA (eDNA) is a highly sensitive approach for species detection if an area can be effectively surveyed to collect eDNA\, which is challenging in terrestrial settings. Airborne eDNA represents a promising avenue to collect and isolate DNA from cargo areas\, and the enclosed nature of a cargo container may allow eDNA to accumulate\, even among small invertebrates. We will discuss preliminary work our team has been doing to assess the promise of airborne eDNA for island biosecurity and if successful\, how these protocols could be implemented in the future \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nStephen Spear\, Research Biologist\, USGS Upper MidwestEnvironmental Sciences CenterStephen began his career as a conservation scientist with the Orianne Society\, a reptile and amphibian conservation organization and concurrently as a visiting scientist with the University of Idaho. During this time he worked on landscape genetics of snakes\, developed an eDNA monitoring program for eastern hellbender\, and initiated a bushmaster conservation program in Costa Rica. After six years at Orianne Society\, he worked for four years as Director of Wildlife Ecology at The Wilds\, an Association of Zoos and Aquariums institution in eastern Ohio\, where he oversaw hellbender and American burying beetle headstarting and reintroduction\, conducted site-level ecological studies\, and continued his work on eDNA and genomic projects. His USGS research portfolio includes advancing environmental DNA detection and use as an early detection and rapid response tool for management of invasive species. \n\n\n\n\n\nDeveloping strong biosecurity measures requires scientific knowledge\, standardized processes\, partnerships across disciplines\, and local leadership. In January 2025\, Guam led an on-island Biosecurity Training that served to showcase and advance years of information exchange with local\, regional\, and national agencies on best practices for managing the flow of invasive species into and off of the island. Guam is a major transportation hub for the Pacific Islands and is key to strengthening the region’s resilience to and preventing the spread of invasive species. This presentation will focus on the roles of the Department of the Interior and USGS in supporting the partnerships and science that supported Guam in hosting its recent Biosecurity Training\, and how we can advance timely followup action items and promising outcomes that benefit Guam as well as the neighboring islands in the Pacific region. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nHeather Kerkering\, Assistant Regional Administrator for the Pacific Islands Climate Adaptation Science CenterPrior to serving as Assistant Regional Administrator (ARA)\, Kerkering was the Science Coordinator for the PI CASC. As the ARA\, Kerkering facilitates collaborations with USGS scientists and partners across the State of Hawai’i and the U.S. Affiliated Pacific Islands (USAPI) that focus on building resiliency of the Pacific’s fragile island ecosystems\, while acknowledging the importance of U.S. government strategic planning across the region. She was a founder of the Pacific RISCC and serves on several related committees\, including the National Invasive Species Council. Her work supports the Department of Interior’s Office of Insular Affairs and she represents USGS to events such as the annual Territorial Workshops\, Biosecurity Trainings\, and the Pacific Ecological Security Conference. Kerkering had the privilege to join the DOI delegation for Our Oceans 2022. Kerkering also oversees dozens of PICASC projects that span a wide range of topics and geographies\, carried out by federal and University Principal Investigators and local/regional community partners. Before joining PICASC\, Kerkering served as the Director of the Pacific Islands Ocean Observing System (PacIOOS) at the UH Mānoa\, She also helped launch the Central and Northern California Ocean Observing System (CenCOOS) at the Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute. She co-edited the first book on Coastal Ocean Observing Systems and has participated in numerous regional\, national\, and international initiatives to improve the collection\, coordination\, and application of environmental information to improve decision-making. \n\n\n\n\n\nBiological invasions represent a major threat to natural resource protection and conservation of biodiversity. With greater socioeconomic connections\, use of recreation areas\, and climate change\, the spread of invasive plants is only expected to increase. These biological pressures have led to significant investments in control measures\, with particular interest in early detection and rapid response tools. In the last decade\, boot brush stations have emerged as a promising tool for limiting introduction and spread of invasive organisms on human footwear in natural areas. In the first part of this presentation\, we review existing literature to evaluate what is known about the efficacy of these stations in different environmental\, biological\, and social contexts and their potential for biosecurity in the United States. In the second part\, we highlight efforts from the North American Invasive Species Management Association (NAISMA) to promote a national network of boot brush stations as part of their PlayCleanGo program. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIan Pearse\, Ecologist\, Fort Collins Science Center Ian conducts research at the individual\, population\, community\, and ecosystem level scales. His work focuses on plant-insect interactions and involves work on endangered insects such as bumble bees\, strategies to map and control invasive plants\, the chemical ecology and behaviors that affect herbivory\, and the boom-and-bust seed production dynamics of many trees (i.e. mast seeding). His work informs management decisions made by the US Fish and Wildlife Service\, National Parks\, and a variety of other groups. \n\n\n\n\n\nCheatgrass and other exotic annual grasses have severely impacted vast expanses of semiarid uplands\, causing damaging increases in wildfire\, loss of native perennials and the habitat they provide\, and detracting from grazing\, military training\, recreation\, and other landscape uses. Management responses have ranged from acceptance of the changes; or resisting the changes through fire protection and suppression; or directing the changes to tolerable “alternative” vegetation states\, often with mixed success. Key breakthroughs have been made recently in detection\, monitoring\, and mapping of the invaders and the wildfire risks they pose\, and in the toolkits for eradication and restoration. Involvement of USGS scientists in the planning\, implementation\, and assessment of the treatments had led to substantial advances in the understanding of the fire and invasion problems\, enhancement of the tools\, and improved security of the fire and invasion threats across vast areas. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nMatt Germino\, Supervisory Research Ecologist\, Forest and Rangeland Ecosystem Science CenterMatt Germino is a supervisory research ecologist that developed and now leads the USGS FIREss team (Fire\, Invasives\, and Restoration Ecology of Shrub Steppe) of 20 researchers on the invasive-grass and wildfire problem affecting sagebrush rangelands and similar habitats in the western USA. The team provides both basic and actionable science for adaptive management of invasive grass-fire problems\, typically co-produced with managers of BLM\, FWS\, NPS\, DOE\, DOD\, state\, and private lands. His work topics such as ecology and control options for cheatgrass and other invaders\, wildfire fuels and risk modeling\, post-fire recovery. and determining the right restoration seed at the right time and place are described in nearly 200 journal articles over the last 25 years.
URL:https://naisma.org/event/nisaw-webinar-biosecurity-at-usgs/
CATEGORIES:NISAW,Webinars
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://naisma.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/bio-usgs.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250224T133000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250224T153000
DTSTAMP:20260917T095924
CREATED:20250122T125021Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250221T193152Z
UID:124777-1740403800-1740411000@naisma.org
SUMMARY:NISAW Webinar: NOAA's Efforts to Support Biosecurity in Marine and Great Lakes Environments
DESCRIPTION:This webinar will explore emerging threats from invasive marine species\, the latest research on coral disease\, and innovative approaches to marine biosecurity. Experts will discuss NOAA’s response to invasive soft corals\, advancements in diagnosing and mitigating stony coral tissue loss disease (SCTLD)\, the evolving impact of lionfish populations\, and strategies for strengthening marine biosecurity to protect ocean ecosystems. \n\n\n\n\nREGISTER NOW\n\n\n\n\nNOAA’s Response to an Emerging Threat of Invasive Soft Corals in the Pacific and Caribbean Basins – Presented by Dr. Joe KriegerRecently\, several marine invasive species have been identified in the Pacific and Caribbean that could impact mission critical operations for US military\, federal and state agencies\, and local communities. If these are not addressed and accounted for\, there’s a substantial risk that these species could be unintentionally spread to other US regions\, potentially causing escalating and compounded economic and ecological damage. In this presentation\, I will detail NOAA’s response to this emerging threat and ongoing efforts to prevent the spread and establishment of these marine invasive species. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nJoe Krieger\, Ph.D.\, NOAA Invasive Species Coordinator \n\n\n\nDr. Krieger serves as NOAA’s national invasive species coordinator and is duty stationed at NOAA’s Great Lakes Environmental Research Laboratory in Ann Arbor\, MI. Joe helps to coordinate NOAA’s invasive species work across the country and to bring awareness to new and emerging threats to NOAA’s managed resources (coral reefs\, fish stocks\, coastal/ shoreline habitat\, etc.). \n\n\n\n\n\nMolecular characterization and diagnosis of stony coral tissue loss disease (SCTLD) – Presented by Dr. Michael StudivanStony coral tissue loss disease (SCTLD) is the most destructive coral disease described to date\, and has become endemic in most parts of the Caribbean. The AOML Coral Program is conducting interdisciplinary research to mitigate further impacts of this disease on Caribbean reefs\, as well as to prevent the potential spread of SCTLD to Pacific reefs. In this talk\, Dr. Michael Studivan will present an overview of the research the AOML Coral Program is conducting to characterize\, diagnose\, and model SCTLD spread\, including implications for management. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nDr. Michael Studivan\, Associate ScientistDr. Michael Studivan is an Associate Scientist at the University of Miami’s Cooperative Institute for Marine and Atmospheric Studies (CIMAS) and NOAA’s Atlantic Oceanographic and Meteorological Laboratory (AOML)\, as part of the AOML Coral Program. His research involves the use of advanced molecular techniques to better understand coral diseases and treatments\, genetic connectivity of coral ecosystems\, and physiology/adaptation of corals in marginal and extreme environments. \n\n\n\n\n\nNature\, Take the Wheel!: Lionfish Abundance\, Impacts\, and Control After the Invasion Peak – Presented by Dr. Steve GittingsWhere are lionfish on the timeline of their invasion cycle? In many places they probably reached peak abundance several years ago. How will the post-peak phase play out? What will determine the levels of future impacts? Will the legacy of lionfish impacts be highly destructive on a continual basis\, less disruptive at some lower level\, or just a memory? \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSteve Gittings\, Ph.D.\, Chief Scientist\, NOAA Office of National Marine SanctuariesDr. Steve Gittings is a conservation scientist\, training and working at Texas A&M University before managing the Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary\, then becoming Chief Scientist for NOAA’s Office of National Marine Sanctuaries in 1997. His specialty is ecosystem characterization and monitoring. He has studied coral reef ecology\, invasive species\, biofouling\, and impacts from ship groundings and oil spills. His team produces reports on resource status and trends in national marine sanctuaries\, which are critical elements of management planning. He has been a diver for over 50 years\, a scientific diver for over 40 years\, has done four saturation missions in the Aquarius habitat\, operated ROVs\, and is a submarine pilot. He also developed a lionfish trap that he hopes will help control deep populations of this invasive species while supplying lionfish as seafood. \n\n\n\n\n\nImproving Marine Biosecurity – Presented by Dr. Val BrownThis talk will provide a brief overview of marine biosecurity concepts including prevention\, early detection and rapid response\, and control and the challenges of addressing invasive species in the marine environment. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nVal Brown\, Research Coordinator\, NOAA National Marine Sanctuary of American SamoaVal Brown is one of the leads for the Pacific Preparedness Team of the US Coral Reef Task Force Coral Disease and Disturbance Working Group. She has worked in the Pacific Islands since 2004 on a broad array of issues including regional marine biosecurity. She was part of the teams that developed the strategic implementation plan for the Micronesia and Hawai’i Regional Biosecurity Plan and control efforts for crown of thorns starfish\, a nuisance species\, in Guam. In her current role as the Research Coordinator for the National Marine Sanctuary of American Samoa\, Val leads the conservation science program and efforts to better understand and protect the amazing marine resources in the sanctuary and the ecosystem services they provide to the people of American Samoa. \n\n\n\n\n\nHorizon Scanning and Risk Assessment – Presented by Rochelle Sturtevant\, Ph.D.This talk will provide an overview of NOAA work in the Great Lakes region to synthesize horizon scanning and risk assessment conducted at scales ranging from local to global\, and to scale this information for application to the Great Lakes. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nRochelle Sturtevant\, Ph.D.\, AIS Specialist and Program Manager for the NOAA Great Lakes Aquatic Nonindigenous Species Information System (GLANSIS)\, Michigan Sea Grant\, Michigan University ExtensionDr. Sturtevant has worked with the GLANSIS database since its inception in 2003\, first as the Sea Grant Liaison to NOAA-GLERL and later as the GLANSIS Program Manager. This NOAA-led regional searchable database provides researchers\, natural resource managers and educators with access to distribution and impact data\, risk assessments\, and synthesis of the latest research publications. Rochelle’s position allows her to work collaboratively with Michigan Sea Grant\, Michigan State University Extension\, and the NOAA Great Lakes Environmental Research Laboratory (GLERL) to address regional science information needs and support early detection and rapid response as well as regional coordination. Dr. Sturtevant serves as Sea Grant research representative to the Great Lakes Panel on ANS as well as contributing to the National Invasive Species Council’s Horizon Scanning Task Team and the ANSTF’s Early Detection and Rapid Response Subcommittee. \n\n\n\n\n\nAn overview of Chondria tumulosa in Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument and the development of preliminary biosecurity protocolsChondria tumulosa was first observed and collected in 2016 after it was found in small patches overgrowing coral reefs around the northeastern backreefs of Manawai (Pearl & Hermes Reef) in the Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument (PMNM). It was not until a research expedition in 2019 that the seriousness and extent of Chondria reef overgrowth and spread came to light. At that time\, preliminary lethality experiments were conducted to inform management of the biosecurity protocols required to mitigate the risk of inadvertently spreading this cryptogenic species elsewhere in the PMNM or inhabited Hawaiian Islands. Further trials were conducted in 2022 to better expand managers’ biosecurity mitigation options after the alga was discovered at the adjacent atoll of Kuaihelani (Midway Atoll) in 2021. In 2023\, the species was identified at Hōlanikū (Kure Atoll) growing cryptically and is now considered to be present at the last three atolls of the Hawaiian Archipelago. It is imperative that managers understand the options available to prevent further spread of this species through vectors associated with anthropogenic activities and natural occurrences. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nBrian B. Hauk\, Sanctuary Resource Specialist\, NOAA’s Office of National Marine Sanctuaries-PapahānaumokuākeaBrian Hauk is the Resource Protection Specialist for the Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument (PMNM) with NOAA’s Office of National Marine Sanctuaries. Part of his duties are to oversee PMNM’s marine biosecurity protocols for alien species management in the Monument. Prior to his time at NOAA\, he worked for Hawaii’s Division of Aquatic Resources utilizing mechanical removal techniques and biocontrol methods to control several invasive red algal species. This background has been very applicable to PMNM’s most recent challenge of managing Chondria tumulosa. Since its discovery\, Hauk has been heavily involved in the development of management actions related to the cryptogenic species that is overgrowing pristine coral reefs in the northern most atolls of PMNM.
URL:https://naisma.org/event/nisaw-webinar-marine-biosecurity/
CATEGORIES:NISAW,Webinars
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://naisma.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/iStock-1286727567-2.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250224T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250224T130000
DTSTAMP:20260917T095924
CREATED:20250122T124408Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250204T133215Z
UID:124773-1740398400-1740402000@naisma.org
SUMMARY:NISAW Webinar: The role of primary and secondary introduction pathway management in effective biosecurity
DESCRIPTION:Effective biosecurity is crucial for safeguarding the United States’ ecosystems\, economy\, and public health from the growing threat of invasive species. One important component of biosecurity is identifying and managing the many ways in which non-native species are moved from one location to another. Introduction pathways include the vector that carries the non-native species (e.g.\, ship hulls\, horticulture\, aquaculture)\, and the geographical routes the species travels. Introductions can be classified as primary – where non-native species cross jurisdictional or biogeographic boundaries\, or as secondary – where they move within these boundaries after the initial introduction. Focusing management efforts on high-risk primary introduction pathways is an efficient approach for reducing the threat posed by multiple invasive species at once before entering the United States. However\, once a species breaches those borders\, the management focus shifts to secondary pathways to limit its spread. This presentation will cover the benefits of managing introduction pathways\, the transition between pre-border\, at-the-border\, and post-border pathway management\, and the challenges we face moving forward. \n\n\n\n\nREGISTER NOW\n\n\n\n\nSpeaker Bio: Deah Lieurance\, Asst. Professor of Invasive Species Biology and Management\, Penn State University \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nDr. Lieurance is an Assistant Professor of Invasive Species Biology and Management in the Ecosystem Science and Management Department at Penn State University. She has worked for over 12 years in invasive species prevention and risk assessment and led the first horizon scan for invasive species threats in the United States. Currently\, Dr. Lieurance is leading horizon scans for the U.S. Virgin Islands\, Puerto Rico\, and a national horizon scan for plants in trade\, as well as a project ranking secondary spread pathways to contribute to the National Early Detection and Rapid Response Framework. She also ran the University of Florida’s risk assessment program for non-native plants and is currently building the Penn State University Invasive Species Risk Analysis Program: a cooperative extension program to determine the invasion status or invasion risk of non-native species for the Pennsylvania Governor’s Invasive Species Council. Her research spans plant-herbivore interactions\, the enemy release hypothesis\, and biocontrol development for high-priority invasive plants. She is currently developing a research program to investigate the effect of climate change on the ecophysiology and chemical ecology of invasive plants and how that might shape plant herbivore interactions.ns.
URL:https://naisma.org/event/nisaw-webinar-the-role-of-primary-and-secondary-introduction-pathway-management-in-effective-biosecurity/
CATEGORIES:NISAW,Webinars
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://naisma.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/prim-sec.jpg
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR