Invasive Species Collaborative Third Annual Symposium deemed a success

Some members of the advisory committee for the Invasive Species Collaborative, and the keynote speaker from left to right: Hallie Harriman, Carrie Fearer, Julian Olden, Jacob Barney, Gabrielle Ripa, Dara Wald, Haldre Rogers, and Meryl Mims. Photo by Clay Blue for Virginia Tech.

On February 27, the Invasive Species Collaborative hosted their third annual symposium at the German Club Manor.

The Keynote speaker, Dr. Julian Olden, professor at the School of Aquatic Fishery Sciences at the University of Washington, spoke about “Society’s Struggle with Unwanted Species.” Olden is an ecologist exploring the structure and function of freshwater ecosystems in response to environmental change, and his research spans the fields of invasion ecology, conservation biology, biogeography, and biosstatistics.

The afternoon also featured a Virginia state panel that included representatives from the departments of forestry, conservation, wildlife resources, and agriculture and consumer services. Their insights and perspectives were valued by the audience members who asked numerous questions and remained engaged throughout the hour.

Several researchers, practitioners, and graduate students participated in presenting their posters and discussing their various research endeavours with a multitude of participants while enjoying some refreshments.

“With nearly 150 registered, this year’s event was a tremendous success, and we are truly inspired by the passion and commitment our community brings to invasive species' research and management,” said Jacob Barney, director of the ISC and professor of invasive plant ecology. “What truly made the symposium special was the enthusiasm of this incredible community.”