The LIISMA Team wishes to thank everyone who attended and participated in our Partners Meeting and Workshop on September 8th at the Hempstead Plains. Despite our struggles with internet connection, we had a great turnout with over 45 in-person and virtual attendees!
Following a LIISMA update and roundtable announcements, Mina Vescera of Cornell Cooperative Extension, Suffolk County, gave an informative presentation of current research on beech leaf disease. Attendees gained a deeper understanding of how the nematode, Litylenchus crenatae mccannii, impacts the health of beech trees and got the chance to see amazing HD micrograph photos of the nematode.
Next Dr. Bethany Bradley with the Northeast RISCC Management Network spoke on the relationship between invasive species policy and climate change. LIISMA partners in attendance were given some food for thought on how to adapt “climate smart” strategies to their work, such as by learning more about invasive species and climate change, working to share information across borders, and implementing climate smart restoration practices.
Rob Longiaru provided a spotlight on the Hempstead Plains, their recent progress on burns, and led a walk of the unique grassland habitat. Attendees saw first hand the rare plants present and the positive effect of fire on disturbance-dependent ecosystems like these.
Special thanks to our presenters, Mina Vescera and Bethany Bradley for sharing their expertise. Additional thanks to Rob Longiaru for hosting and helping to organize this great event.
In case you missed it, check out the workshop recording on our Youtube channel. See you all at the next LIISMA Partners Meeting & Workshop on Friday, December 1st!
