With everyone seemingly talking about gypsy moth caterpillars this spring, tonight’s Midland-Penetanguishene Field Naturalists’ presentation should prove especially popular.
Well-known local naturalist David Hawke will discuss invasive species in Simcoe County and ‘what you can do about them’ during the group’s virtual monthly meeting, beginning at 7:30 p.m.
“Several species of non-native plants have made themselves at home in Simcoe County, and a few have become rather boorish with their aggressive manners,” a note promoting the Zoom event says.
Hawke is expected to cover the top five invasive species that are threatening to alter the natural ecosystem, and tips on how to combat them.
Hawke, who writes a weekly column that appears in MidlandToday, has been involved with controlling the spread of invasive plants for several years, starting with his recent role of property manager with the Couchiching Conservancy Land Trust.
Garlic mustard, phragmites reed, dog-strangling vine and others have tried to root themselves in local conservation lands, but with the help of many volunteers the spread of these plants is coming under control.
Hawke’s presentation will highlight the latest info about the ‘Phrag Free’ program being applied to Tiny Marsh. He looks forward to answering your questions as well.
Over the years, Hawke has worked as a naturalist and wildlife technician at the Wye Marsh Wildlife Centre and the Tiny Marsh Provincial Wildlife Area.
He has also been employed as an eco-tourism manager for several resorts in central Ontario. Most recently he was with the Couchiching Conservancy Land Trust as their stewardship manager and ecologist. He currently works as a freelance ecological consultant and his book Wetlands won the Best Book Award from the Outdoor Writers of Canada.
Anyone interested in getting an invitation to tonight’s meeting or learning more about the club, can send an email to [email protected].
