CONTACT:
Rachel Stevens: (603) 778-0015
Kelle MacKenzie: (603) 778-0015
July 22, 2008

Free Workshop August 2 for Seacoast-area Landowners on Removing Invasive Plant Species

GREENLAND, N.H. -- If you live in New Hampshire's coastal watershed and would like to learn the most effective ways to remove invasive plant species, come to a free, hands-on workshop, "It's Your Choice: Invasive Plant Species Options for Homeowners," on August 2, 2008, from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Great Bay Discovery Center, 89 Depot Road in Greenland, N.H. (Rain date is August 9, 2008). New Hampshire's coastal watershed spans 42 towns in Strafford and Rockingham counties. Staff of the Great Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve (GBNERR), and the U.S. Forest Service are partnering to present the program.

"Invasive plants know no boundaries, so native plants in our region are being strangled, choked, shaded out or toppled by invasive shrubs, vines and trees," said Rachel Stevens, GBNERR Land Stewardship Coordinator. "This workshop is a chance to learn how to identify invasive plants and alternatives for replacing them. By removing invasive plant species, you can help protect and restore the ecological integrity of New Hampshire's coastal watershed."

There is no charge for the workshop, but registration is required. Please register early, as space is limited. To register, contact Rachel Stevens, GBNERR Land Stewardship Coordinator, at rachel.stevens@wildlife.nh.gov or call (603) 778-0015.

At the workshop, participants will learn how to identify the most common invasive plants and overview both chemical and pesticide-free options for their removal. The session will explain the best removal techniques for conditions specific to your yard, and suggest species that could be planted as an alternative to invasives. It also will provide an overview of potential funding sources and tool loan programs available to support these efforts.

The Great Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve is a cooperative federal-state partnership between the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department and the National Oceanice and Atmospheric Administration. Visit www.greatbay.org.

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