Invasive Species Centre

Spotted Lanternfly Workshop
2025-11-17 | the Ojibway Nature Centre (5200 Matchett Road, Windsor)
Join us on November 17th at the Ojibway Nature Centre (5200 Matchett Road, Windsor) for a workshop on spotted lanternfly, a novel invasive insect that poses significant threats to horticulture, forestry, and the natural environment. Participants will learn about spotted lanternfly’s impacts, how it spreads, and how they can detect and prevent it.

There will be two workshop sessions on Monday November 17th with the first session in the morning from 9:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. and the second session from 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Participants are asked to register for ONE of the two sessions through the registration links below.

To register for the morning session (9:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.) please use the following link: https://bit.ly/43EcTX2

To register for the evening session (6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.) please use the following link: https://bit.ly/4oGh5O3

These workshops are open to grape and tender fruit growers, vineyard, nursery, and woodlot owners and managers, arborists, landscapers, government and conservation authority staff, students, gardeners, and members of the public.

Light refreshments will be served and eligibility for CEUs for certified arborists and certified crop advisors is pending.

68th National Forest Pest Management Forum
2025-11-18 - 2025-11-20 | Courtyard Marriott Downtown in Ottawa, Ontario
Organized by Natural Resources Canada in support of the National Forest Pest Strategy, the Forum is the largest and most significant gathering of forest pest management experts, managers, and practitioners in Canada. The objectives are to share information on current and future pest conditions, pest control operations, environmental issues, and the development of new technologies for forest health monitoring and management, as well as to discuss the latest research findings.
In-person at the Courtyard Marriott Downtown in Ottawa, Ontario and virtually via Zoom hosted by the Canadian Institute of Forestry.
Register by November 15th, 2025

Webinar: Harnessing AI for Invasive Species Detection: Smart Traps, Drones, and Machine Learning in Action
2025-11-19 14:00 - 15:30 (America/Toronto) | Online
Dr. Melissa Miller from the University of Florida will present her work on developing AI-powered smart traps designed to detect and remove invasive tegu lizards—large, fast-moving reptiles that threaten native wildlife and agriculture in the southeastern U.S. Dr. Thomas O’Shea-Wheller from the University of Exeter will share his team’s research on using deep learning models to detect invasive hornets in real time, offering critical insights for rapid response and containment. Representing Ducks Unlimited Canada, Matthew Bolding and Mallory Carpenter will discuss their efforts to integrate drone technology and AI to monitor populations of European water chestnut, a fast-spreading aquatic invasive plant impacting wetland biodiversity and water quality.
This webinar will highlight how emerging technologies are being adapted and applied to meet the challenges of invasive species detection in the field—providing a glimpse into the future of smart conservation.

The sixth biennial Delta Invasive Species Symposium
2025-12-04 | the California Natural Resources Agency headquarters in downtown Sacramento
Save the date for the sixth biennial Delta Invasive Species Symposium, Modeling and Managing Invasive Species for Tomorrow’s Delta. The Symposium will take place at the California Natural Resources Agency headquarters in downtown Sacramento on December 4, 2025.
Organized by the Delta Interagency Invasive Species Coordination DIISC Team, the Symposium is free to attend and open to anyone interested in the impacts of invasive species in the Delta region. The event will be held in person with a virtual attendance option. Additional details and registration information will be available this fall.

Annual Biocontrol Summit: Successes in Biocontrol – Weed Management’s Silent Hero
2025-12-04 11:00 - 15:00 | Online
The North American Invasive Species Management Association’s 6th Annual Weed Biocontrol Summit will be held virtually on December 4, 2025, from 11:00 am – 3:00 pm CST. This annual event shares the latest advances in classical weed biocontrol research with invasive plant managers and educators across North America, fostering connections between researchers and on-the-ground practitioners.

2025 U.S. Water Leaders Summit
2025-12-05 | MacRay Harbor, Michigan
The Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Cities Initiative is hosting its U.S. Water Leaders Summit in Macomb County, Michigan—just 30 minutes north of Detroit. Proudly supported by Title Sponsor U.S. Pipe, this unique regional meeting will convene more than 100 municipal, Indigenous, corporate, and environmental leaders from across the region. Together, they will explore community-driven solutions to strengthen the economy, enhance climate resilience, and advance freshwater stewardship.

The 2nd International Invasive Species and Climate Change Conference
2025-12-09 - 2025-12-10 | Online
The second International Invasive Species and Climate Change Conference is being organized by the Regional Invasive Species and Climate Change (RISCC) Network and hosted by the North American Invasive Species Management Association (NAISMA). The 1st IISCCC (January 2024) was a smashing success with nearly 1300 attendees from >20 countries and 6 continents.

This time we are hoping for presentation proposals from natural/cultural resource managers and early careers – Pitch us on a presentation here.

The Second Invasive Species and Climate Change Conference
2025-12-09 13:00 - 2025-12-10 17:00 | Online

Landscape Ontario Congress
2026-01-06 - 2026-01-08 | Toronto Congress Centre
The Landscape Ontario Congress is Canada’s largest annual trade show and conference for landscape professionals

Rural Ontario Municipal Association Conference
2026-01-18 - 2026-01-20 | Sheraton Hotel Toronto, Ontario
Conference programming, including the opportunity to connect with your ROMA Board Zone Representatives and Zone Colleagues and attend additional workshops, begins the morning of Sunday, January 18. Plan to arrive Saturday so you can you don’t miss a thing.

Great Lakes Public Forum under the Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement
2026-02-04 - 2026-02-05 | Ralph H. Metcalfe Federal Building at 77 West Jackson Blvd, Chicago, IL 60604
The Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement calls for the United States and Canada to convene the Great Lakes Public Forum every three years to discuss progress made under the Agreement. The Forum also provides an opportunity for the public to provide feedback on the Progress Report of the Parties to the International Joint Commission, who is tasked with obtaining public feedback and advising on the implementation of the Agreement.

Webinar: Fighting Back Against Hemlock Woolly Adelgid: A Review of the Tools in the Toolbox
2026-02-04 12:00 - 13:00 | Zoom
This presentation will inform viewers of the unique lifecycle of HWA and the integrated pest management interventions available to landowners and managers such as silviculture and pesticide application. We will discuss the current monitoring efforts and programs in Ontario and some of the actions taking place outside of Ontario (i.e., biocontrol) to help mitigate the impact of HWA to hemlocks and ensure their future on the landscape.

NAISMA Webinar: Shaping Public Policy: Advocacy in Action
2026-02-18 14:00 - 15:00 | Online
Political processes can be convoluted and esoteric, but remain key avenues for influence and the expression of public values. This webinar will illuminate the inner workings of Congress and federal agencies, and the methods available to make your voice strategic and effective when pushing for change.

ECO Impact
2026-02-19 - 2026-02-20 | Calgary, Alberta
Established in 2017, ECO IMPACT has become a cornerstone event for Canada’s Environmental Professionals. What began as a celebration of yearly achievements has evolved into a comprehensive platform that combines award recognition with professional development.

Seeking feedback on Ministry of Natural Resources’ draft Ontario Invasive Species Strategic Plan
2026-02-23
Submit your feedback by February 23, 2026
As part of Ontario’s ongoing commitment to preventing the introduction and spread of invasive species that threaten our environment, economy, and communities, I am pleased to share that the draft renewed Ontario Invasive Species Strategic Plan is now posted on the Environmental Registry of Ontario.
The renewed Strategic Plan addresses the increasing and complex challenges posed by invasive species in Ontario. By strengthening coordinated efforts in prevention, early detection, rapid response, and adaptive management, Ontario is taking decisive action to safeguard biodiversity, reduce economic risks, and ensure the long‑term health of ecosystems that support jobs, recreation, and cultural values. These efforts help safeguard our communities and ensure a sustainable future for generations to come.
Feedback received through the original Renewing the Ontario Invasive Species Strategic Plan proposal, along with engagement from partners and stakeholders, has informed the development of this draft. The renewed Plan outlines five goals that support a future where Ontario’s natural environment, communities, and economy are protected from the harm caused by invasive species. It also builds on the foundation of the 2012 Strategic Plan and the Ontario Invasive Species Strategic Plan: Review of Progress (2012–2022).
We invite your comments on the new policy proposal, Ontario Invasive Species Strategic Plan (ERO #025-1334), https://ero.ontario.ca/notice/025-1334, which is open for a 45‑day comment period from January 9, 2026, to February 23, 2026, on the Environmental Registry of Ontario. All feedback received on the draft will be considered in preparing the final Strategic Plan.
If you have questions or would like to discuss the draft further, please contact the Biodiversity and Invasive Species Section at invasive.species@ontario.ca.

USDA Cooperative Research Forum on Invasive Species
2026-02-24 - 2026-02-26 | Graduate Hotel in Annapolis, MD
Important Deadlines

The deadline for poster abstract submission is February 1, 2026.
The deadline for oral presentation abstract submission is January 9, 2026

Keynote Speakers: Wednesday Morning
Dr. Jennifer Koch, USDA Forest Service, Northern Research Station
The Tree Species in Peril Breeding Program
Dr. Jiri Hulcr, University of Florida, Entomology And Nematology Department
The role of AI in invasive species science and management
Session Topics: Wednesday and Thursday

Invasive Plants
Invasive Pathogens of Trees
Biological Control of Invasive Species
Area-wide Management of Invasive Species
Research Reports.

Webinar: Transforming the Problem: Using Invasive Species for Art, Craft and Woodworking
2026-02-24 01:00 - 13:00 | Zoom
From buckthorn to dog-strangling vine and phragmites, we’ll explore a few different ways to turn invasive species into art supplies. Artist and maker Kate Hayday will share a few projects she’s made using the invasive species found in her forest as raw materials. Needlefelting, natural inks and dyes, automata, and sturdy basket handles, this talk is all about finding beauty in unexpected places.

Insects and Climate Change Education Day
2026-02-24 09:30 - 13:30 | Online
Climate change is a concern across the Commonwealth. While many communities prepare by discussing improvements to infrastructure and disaster preparedness, managed and natural landscapes will demand attention too. We will highlight some of the manifestations of climate change, plant responses to those changes (trees and shrubs) and the interplay with insects (including pests).
Learn how:

Insect populations fluctuate in response to climate change.
Climate change affects the functioning & composition of our forests.
Urban heat islands and climate change increase urban tree stress & increase pest insect fitness (scale insects).
To be better prepared to predict and manage insect pest outbreaks caused by warming temperatures.

International Conference on Water Management Modeling
2026-02-25 - 2026-02-27 | The Westin Toronto Airport Hotel
The ICWMM brings together professionals from around the world to exchange ideas on current practices and emerging technologies in water management. Emphasis is on state-of-the-art computer modeling for resolving water quantity and quality problems in stormwater, wastewater, watershed, and water distribution systems.
Abstract submission deadline is February 1st, 2026.

Alberta Invasive Species Council 2026 Conference
2026-03-11 - 2026-03-12 | Olds College of Agriculture and Technology
A variety of sessions focused on invasive species as well as certified pesticide applicator credits and CEU credits will be offered. We will be hosting a poster session, a 50/50 raffle and opportunities for networking and sponsorship – please contact us at communications@abinvasives.ca to inquire.

2026 NE RISCC Symposium
2026-03-24 - 2026-03-25 | Online
Join us for two half-days of invasive species and climate change talks, panels, and workshops! The symposium is free and will take place on March 24 and 25, 2026 from 10AM – 3PM Eastern each day.

Biological control of introduced Phragmites australis in Ontario
2026-04-07 12:30 - 13:30 | Online
Presented by Dr. Ian Jones, Research Associate in the Smith Forest Health Laboratory at the University of Toronto
Introduced Phragmites australis (hereafter Phragmites) is one of the most invasive plants in North America. Classical biological control represents an affordable, and host-specific option to supplement existing management approaches. Dr. Jones will outline the process by which candidate biological control agents are selected, screened for host specificity, and released in their introduced range and provide an update of the Phragmites biological control program in Ontario, and the plans for its expansion.

2026 AIS Short Course
2026-04-29 - 2026-04-30 | Exploration Center in Missoula, Montana
Missoula County Department of Ecology and Extension is excited to be hosting the 2026 Aquatic Invasive Species Short Course!
The course will be held at the Exploration Center in Missoula, Montana on April 29th and 30th.
Join us in beautiful Missoula for two full days of hands-on workshops, panels, speaker sessions, and demonstrations!

2026 IAGLR-SCAS-SCSA Joint Conference
2026-05-25 - 2026-05-29 | Winnipeg, Manitoba
You’re invited to the joint conference of the International Association for Great Lakes Research and the Society of Canadian Aquatic Sciences—where global research on the world’s large lakes meets Canada’s rich tapestry of aquatic systems, from rivers and lakes to oceans and groundwater. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect, collaborate, and advance our knowlege across scales and borders.
The conference theme—Connected Waters: Bridging Communities & Ideas—reflects our commitment to fostering dialogue across scientific, Indigenous, and local knowledge systems. It recognizes that healthy waters are sustained through relationships among diverse communities, disciplines, ecosystems, and ways of knowing, and it underscores the importance of collaboration in addressing aquatic challenges across Canada, the Great Lakes, and beyond.
Hosted by the IISD Experimental Lakes Area, the conference will be hybrid, so if you can’t make it to Winnipeg in person, you’re welcome to join us online. We hope to see you May 25–29, 2026.

Invasive Species Awareness Fair
2026-05-30 | Erindale Park, Mississauga, Ontario
Join us at the Invasive Species Awareness Fair where you’ll meet environmental experts and some very special four-legged guests: a team of goats helping to clear invasive plants naturally! Residents will learn how to detect, report and protect Mississauga’s green and natural spaces while enjoying free activities on-site

PlayCleanGo Awareness Week 2026
2026-06-06 - 2026-06-13 | Online
PlayCleanGo® Awareness Week, taking place June 6-13, 2026, across North America. This annual campaign brings together outdoor enthusiasts, land managers, and partners across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico—including Invasives Canada and CONABIO—to help prevent the spread of invasive species.
This year’s theme, “We protect the places we love,” highlights the simple actions we can all take to care for the lands and waters we enjoy. Wherever we go, we all play a role in protecting these places for future generations.

Webinar: Kowabdanawa odë kė: Preventing and Preparing for Invasive Species on Pokagon Lands
2026-06-17 09:00 - 10:30 | Online
The emerald ash borer decimated the ash population across the state. For the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians in Southwest Michigan, this meant the loss of mature black ash trees, culturally important for traditional basket making. Since then, many new invasive species have emerged that could cause harm to culturally significant trees in the tribe’s service area in southwest Michigan and northern Indiana. Join Vic Bogosian, Natural Resources Manager for the Pokagon Band’s Kowabdanawa odë kė (‘They watch over this land’) to learn how they are taking a proactive approach, including education, tree surveys and response planning, to prepare for Asian longhorned beetle, spotted lanternfly, and beech leaf and beech bark diseases.

Hemlock Woolly Adelgid Management Training for Practitioners
2026-06-26 09:00 - 12:00 | Arboretum (16 Old Guelph Rd. Hamilton ON)
9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Arboretum (16 Old Guelph Rd. Hamilton ON)

Paid parking applies

For working conservation professionals who are either dealing with or preparing for Hemlock Woolly Adelgid on their property
Please come dressed for the weather. This program includes both an indoor and field portion. The outdoor portion will occur rain or shine, unless severe weather (thunderstorm) suspends the field portion

What you will learn:

The ecological importance of Eastern Hemlock and the imminent threat of Hemlock Woolly Adelgid (HWA)
HWA’s lifecycle and mechanisms of spread
HWA identification both in-person and in the field
How to develop an HWA survey program and examine different sampling techniques
Treatment options available in Ontario

By attending this event, you’re helping support the protection of Eastern Hemlock at RBG

Information booths for boaters on AIS and Clean Drain Dry in June/July
2026-06-30 - 2026-07-10 | Trent Severn Waterway
Information booths for boaters on AIS and Clean Drain Dry will be held by Parks Canada on Trent Severn Waterway throughout June and July on the following dates and locations:
Lock 21/PTBO Lift Lock – June 30: 10am-2pm
Lock 28/Burleigh Falls – July 2: 10am-2pm
Lock 31/Buckhorn – July 3: 10am-2pm
Lock 27/ Young’s Point – July 8: 10am-2pm
Lock 32/Bobcaygeon – July 9: 4:30pm-8:30pm
Lock 20/Ashburnham – July 10: 10am-2pm
For more information, please email: info@invadingspecies.com

Presque Isle State Park Education and outreach event with boat wash/decontamination activities
2026-07-02 10:00 - 12:00 | Presque Isle State Park, Erie, Pennsylvania
An education and outreach event with boat wash and decontamination activities at the Niagara Boat Ramp in Presque Isle State Park, Erie, Pennsylvania.
For more information, please contact: info@invadingspecies.com
