ENGAGING HOMEOWNERS ABOUT INVASIVES
Extension Education
Gabrielle Milch
Residential Horticulture Agent
UF/IFAS
Abstract
Situation: Homeowners should manage for invasive species in their yards and their neighborhood’s conservation easements. We held an evening learning event to meet homeowners’ informational needs on invasive species removal. Our objectives were: 1) Increase participants’ knowledge about the problems of invasive species, 2) Have participants identify at least one invasive plant or animal in their yard or neighborhood after the program, and 3) Distribute resources to help them understand how to remove invasive plants in their area. Methods: We organized a two-hour program which consisted of: a PowerPoint on invasive species ,a discussion with a six person panel of local invasive species experts (representing six different academic and governmental agencies), live samples with information sheets for 36 invasive plants, and a “neighborhood invasive removal toolkit” . Results: We had 23 participants attend. Sixteen participants responded to a follow-up survey (70% response rate). We found that 15 participants improved their awareness of invasive species problems, 10 could identify an average of five invasive species in their yards/neighborhoods, and 15 (93% of those surveyed) are willing to remove them. Conclusion: Our results showed that an evening panel-based program with samples of the plants was an effective learning platform. We intend to expand our audience and refine our materials/methods to increase the amount of invasive species removal from private property.
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Poster has NOT been presented at any previous NACAA AM/PIC
This poster is being submitted for judging. It will be displayed at the AM/PIC if not selected as a State winner. The abstract will be published in the proceedings.
A poster file has not been provided
Authors: G. Milch, Sudol
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Milch, G. Residential Horticulture Agent, UF/IFAS, Florida, 32773
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, S. Florida-Friendly Landscaping Program Agent, UF/IFAS, Florida, 32773