Mark your calendars! On Wednesday, April 16, 2025, the New Jersey Invasive Species Strike Team will host its 18th Annual Conference at the beautiful Duke Farms in Hillsborough, NJ. This event is widely regarded as the most comprehensive statewide forum on invasive species, bringing together experts, practitioners, and stakeholders to discuss strategies for combating invasive plants, pests, and pathogens across New Jersey.

Why Attend?

This full-day conference (9 AM – 4 PM) offers an in-depth look at the latest research, strategies, and best practices in invasive species management. From cutting-edge deer population assessments using infrared drone surveys to real-world insights on weed control and forest restoration, attendees will gain valuable knowledge to apply in their own conservation efforts.

Highlights from the Agenda:

• Assessing Deer Population Densities in Northern New Jersey – Dr. Jay Kelly (Raritan Valley Community College) will share research findings, including drone survey data on deer populations.
• Implementation of Invasive Weed Control Programs – Drew O’Neill (Weeds, Inc.) will discuss practical approaches to planning and executing effective weed control efforts.
• Pests and Pathogens in New Jersey Forests: What’s Next? – Ben Pisano (New Jersey Forest Service) will explore current and emerging threats to our forests.
• Forested Floodplain Restoration at Duke Farms – A case study on wetland and habitat restoration efforts led by John Jengo (Stantec) and Michael Bellaus (Duke Farms).
• The State of New Jersey Invasive Species – Dr. Michael Van Clef (NJ Invasive Species Strike Team) will provide updates on invasive species legislation, new threats, and early detection efforts.

Who Should Attend?

This event is ideal for conservation professionals, land managers, ecologists, policymakers, and anyone passionate about protecting New Jersey’s natural landscapes. Whether you’re an experienced practitioner or just getting started, this conference provides a unique opportunity to network, collaborate, and learn from the best in the field.

Continuing Education Credits Available:

Attendees can earn up to 8 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) through various forestry and pesticide control programs, making this event both informative and professionally beneficial.

Event Details:

📅 Date: Wednesday, April 16, 2025
📍 Location: Duke Farms, 1112 Dukes Parkway West, Hillsborough, NJ 08844
🍴 Lunch: A farm-to-table meal provided by Duke Farms
📩 Register & Questions: Contact dfevents@dorisduke.org for dietary concerns or visit the official event page to secure your spot.

The Sea Girt Conservancy is proud to support this vital initiative in the fight against invasive species. We encourage our members and the broader conservation community to attend, learn, and take action to protect New Jersey’s native ecosystems!