By Scout Nelson
The invasive plant identification workshop offers practical learning experience for individuals who work with vegetation in outdoor spaces. The program focuses on helping participants identify and report invasive plants before they spread and cause damage. Early detection is important to protect natural areas, farms, and public lands.
During the workshop, participants learn how to recognize key plant features. They also practice identifying target invasive species and comparing them with similar-looking plants. This helps them avoid confusion and make accurate reports. Hands-on samples are used to improve learning and build confidence.
The workshop covers several high-priority invasive plants. These include stiltgrass, Johnsongrass, swallow-worts, rough potato, Dalmatian toadflax, golden honeysuckle vine, porcelain berry, butterburs, teasels, Amur corktree, tree-of-heaven, and rowan mountain ash. Some regional species are also discussed.
This program is a joint effort by multiple organizations. These include the University of Minnesota Extension, the Minnesota Departments of Agriculture, Natural Resources, and Transportation, and the U.S. Forest Service. Their combined expertise ensures high-quality training for participants.
The workshop is designed for people who actively work in areas like roadsides, parks, pastures, and natural lands. It is especially useful for those who need to identify plants as part of their daily work. Participants can also request verification to earn SAF and ISA continuing education credits.
The event will take place on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Central time at the MnDOT Training Center in St. Cloud, Minnesota. The program is free, but registration is already full. Participants are advised to bring their own lunch, as there is no break to leave the site. For other enquiry contact in the given email: Angie Gupta, agupta@umn.edu
The organizers support equal participation and offer accommodations if requested in advance. Interpreter services may also be available.
This workshop helps individuals improve their skills and take action to control invasive plant threats effectively.
Photo Credit: pexels-greta-hoffman
Categories: Minnesota, General, Sustainable Agriculture