What, exactly, is an invasive species? And what are everyday citizens expected to do about them? According to a federal government website, An invasive species is defined as a species that is non-native (or alien) to the ecosystem under consideration and whose introduction causes or is likely to cause economic or environmental harm or harm to human health. Some species of plants and animals are accidentally introduced, but others are planted/released either without awareness of, or concern for, the effects on native species.

Invited guest speakers Dr. Robin Daughty and Dr. Matt Turner will focus on the six main invasive species affecting Texas at this time: sparrows, starlings, feral hogs and cats, water hyacinth, Chinese tallow, and salt cedar. They will describe the invasives’ introduction, spread, and control strategies, while also exploring unforeseen benefits and the ways that culture and shifting attitudes influence the species’ management. As such, the presentation is expected to serve as both an introduction to the issues and a stimulus to further thought and discussion.

Doors to the AgriLife Extension Service auditorium will open at 9:30 a.m. for social time and light refreshments. The business portion of the meeting will start at 10:00 a.m. and the invited speaker will begin immediately afterwards. Weather permitting, there will be a pre-meeting bird walk at 8:00 a.m. in Haley Nelson Park off Hwy. 29 in Burnet.

Invasive Water Hyacinths.