Invasive Species with Jeff O'Handley

What to Watch for, What to Do

Whether you’re taking a lazy paddle on a lake, seeking an elusive warbler in the treetops, even walking down a city street, invasive species are everywhere. Invasive species disrupt native ecosystems, cost our economy billions of dollars each year, and can directly and indirectly cause injury and illness. And it seems like there’s always a new one making news.

In this online program, Jeff O’Handley will examine the problem of invasive species and will share some of his experiences battling yellow floating heart, hemlock woolly adelgid, European frog-bit, and other invasives. Don’t be fooled by these harmless sounding names, they can be hard to find, but they’re even harder to get rid of!

The program will include a broad overview of invasive species, including where they come from, how they get here, and why some introduced species aren’t a problem. We’ll also go into greater detail about several invasive species in our area, including how to identify them, where they’re found, and their impact locally. Finally, Jeff will provide participants with some ways they can help control the spread of invasives, and get involved with control programs in their area.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER FOR THE ZOOM PROGRAM.

About the Presenter

Jeff O’Handley is the program director for the Otsego County Conservation Association where he is frequently found butt-deep in a swamp or freezing in the forest–and loving it. A lifelong interest in science and nature led Jeff to study Wildlife Management at Cook College, Rutgers University, but he soon found great enjoyment in environmental education. Jeff’s career has taken him from tiny museums and expansive state parks to the heart of New York City. Jeff and his wife, DOAS board member and former co-President, Susan O’Handley moved to Hartwick in 2003 and formed Wildlife Learning Company, which provided environmental education programs throughout the region. Jeff joined OCCA in 2013.

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