PARENT SESSION
Workshop: Workshop for K-12 Teachers to Develop Educational Materials on Invasive Species
Monday, November 3, 2003, 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM
Sawgrass

Part of the effort in the battle against biological invasions is a campaign for public awareness. A more informed society would be more effective at bringing about social and political change. Perhaps the most receptive audience on environmental issues is K-12 students. If taught about the issues associated with biological invasions, children both today and in the future when they grow up can be instrumental in battling biological invasions. They can volunteer at local parks to help remove exotics; they can support legislation that provides more funds for managers and agricultural inspectors; and they can choose the appropriate plants when designing their home landscapes. The job of educating K-12 students belongs to primary and secondary school teachers. The goal of this K-12 outreach workshop is to give a brief introduction on biological invasions to K – 12 teachers and to provide them with examples and demonstrations of activities to use in the classroom. There is no cost for this workshop, but priority will be given to K-12 teachers.

Alien invasion: What teachers need to know.

Hunsberger, Adrian^*,1, ¹ University of Florida/Miami-Dade County Extension, Homestead, Florida

ABSTRACT- When it comes to invasive species, plants first come to mind for many people. However, many animals including insects, nematodes, diseases are of great concern as well. Learn how these organisms impact the environment and you directly. You'll also learn how invasive pests are controlled using biological control organisms.

Key words: biological control, invasive species