Purple loosestrife data collection training
Purple loosestrife is a prohibited invasive species commonly found in wetlands, along shorelines, and in roadside ditches. Biocontrol efforts using Galerucella beetles have been highly successful at controlling purple loosestrife populations in Minnesota but changes in both plant and beetle populations have left density and distribution maps outdated.
You can help land managers and researchers understand current purple loosestrife and Galerucella beetle distribution and density so beetles can be reared and released to effectively manage purple loosestrife.
Help is needed with one or more of these volunteer opportunities:
- Submit reports of purple loosestrife infestations.
- Submit observations of Galerucella beetles on purple loosestrife.
- Verify Galerucella beetle observations.
Audience
Anyone in Minnesota is welcome to volunteer.
Cost
Free
Accessibility
University of Minnesota Extension is committed to providing equal opportunity for participation in all programs, services, and activities. To request accommodations for persons with disabilities, contact Angela Gupta at agupta@umn.edu.
Registration
Register to receive a link to the training materials and project instructions.
You can help monitor and prevent the spread of invasive species in Minnesota through our Terrestrial Invasive Species Participatory Science (TIPS) program. Family woodland owners, natural resource professionals, and community members can all become TIPS volunteers. Together we can advance invasive species research, management and policy on targeted participatory science projects.