See it – Report it – Stop it!
August 2026 workshop trains others to identify aquatic invasive species
Wildwood Park, Harrisburg, PA
Thirty-four participants traveled from across the state to Harrisburg to take part in the day-long, in-class and in-field workshop to learn about invasive fish, mollusks, plants, and invertebrates – and how to do their part to stop the invasive spread.
In-class presentations focused on some of the worst ‘invaders’ tips to tell the difference between invasive & native species, and tools to report the sighting to state officials. Preserved specimens provided an up close view of some of those invasive species.
Sara Stahlman, Extension Leader for Pennsylvania Sea Grant led the group through an interactive presentation focused on identification tips and reporting methods.
Sean Hartzell, Aquatic Invasive Species Coordinator for the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission provided an in-depth presentation highlighting a variety of fish species – both native and invasive, found in Pennsylvania and ways to distinguish between the native and invasive species. One of those invasive species, the Northern Snakead, is a large, predatory fish species considered a popular food fish in its native range of China, Russia, and the Korean peninsula. It is a freshwater obligate air breather that possesses an air bladder that works like a primitive lung, allowing it to survive out of water in moist locations for several days. Participants got a first-hand look at a preserved specimen.
And Dr. Owen Schneider, from Temple University provided an in-depth presentation covering aquatic invasive plants, and tips for identifying them in the field.
Armed with knowledge, it was time for a ‘wetland walk’ to practice their skills. The “Plant out of place” field survey challenged the group to use the provided ID resources, like the PA Aquatic Invasive Species Field Guide and “PA AIS” app, to identify invasive plant species. Together, the group identified and practiced reporting nearly a dozen invasive species.
