Non-native invasive plants pose a serious threat to New Hampshire's natural environment. UNH Extension aims to increase awareness, collaboration, and capacity to deal with the invasive plant threat by hosting the New Hampshire Invasives Academy Online over 5 weeks March 4 – April 8, 2021. Rolling Admissions Jan 1, 2021 – through March 1.

The NH Invasives Academy is a workshop where up to 40 attendees have the opportunity to attend presentations, learn from colleagues, experts, and each other, about ecological considerations and management strategies for invasive plants in New Hampshire. Topics covered will include: Invasive Plant Ecology, Identification, Management Techniques, Regulations & Reporting, Aquatic Invasives, Herbicide Application, Resources & Outreach Tools, and Individual Action Planning.

The Academy will include units delivered weekly for five weeks. Students can engage in much of the course content at their own pace, on their own schedule with the exception of a weekly live Zoom session. Each week work will contain 3-4 hours of content, including:

• At least one recorded presentation or video on unit topic by guest experts
• Discussion board assignments to explore unit details and connect with other attendees
• Live session with experts with questions and discussion opportunities. Live session attendance is required. They will be on Thursdays from 4:00 – 5:30pm on March 4 (optional), March 11, March 18, March 25, April 1, April 8
• Adequate internet connectivity is necessary; training and support will be provided on use of software used for online learning (no experience with online learning expected).

WHO SHOULD APPLY? The New Hampshire Invasives Academy is designed for those with a strong interest and some experience in natural resources stewardship, including foresters, land trust staff, natural resource professionals, private landowners, and active community volunteers. In exchange for the 5-week training, participants agree to return to their New Hampshire communities and contribute 20 hours of time sharing information learned at the Academy with landowners, colleagues, clients, or other members of their community. A $35 registration fee partially covers online materials. This workshop is underwritten by program sponsors — UNH Cooperative Extension, US Forest Service, and other collaborating organizations. Professional credits are available for foresters and natural resources professionals.