From staff reports

The Northeast Chapter of Indiana Native Plant Society and Little River Wetlands Project are partnering to present a training program on local invasive plant species. This two-part program includes a Wednesday evening classroom session followed by a Saturday morning educational hike, both at the Eagle Marsh barn, 6801 Engle Road, Fort Wayne, and both led by Freya Berntson of INPS-NE. Registration is required. The training is available to both INPS members and the public.

The classroom session is 6-8 p.m. May 31. The hike is 10 a.m.-noon June 3. Register at https://indiananativeplants.org.

The classroom session will deal with the definition of an invasive species and the identifying characteristics of some of the worst and most threatening invasive plant species in this area. The discussion will cover how to prevent spreading these plants, and how to treat them if you find them on your property.

Hikers will trek around Eagle Marsh in search of some the invasive plant species that LRWP works to manage while protecting beneficial plants and habitat. This will be a hands-on hike during which participants can practice identification techniques of several invasive plants. Plan to hike up to one mile.

For both sessions, please dress for the weather and bring a water bottle. The barn is not air-conditioned, so it can be warm inside. For the hike, wear sturdy shoes and plan to be in full sun the majority of the time. Sunscreen, insect repellent, and hats are highly recommended.

The group will host a native plant swap from 8-10 a.m. June 3, before the invasive plant hike. “Come at 8 with your extras all potted up and labeled, and take home some new plants in their place,” the newsletter said.