May Program

Plant pests are on the way –
what you can do.

Spring brings the welcomed promise of renewal: the trilling of the songbirds, the buzz of the bees and other beneficial bugs. But it also brings, increasingly it seems, the threat of pest invasions, both plant and animal. It’s those exotic pests and what we can do about them that will be the topic of the May 6 Minneapolis Audubon Chapter program. Steven Shimek, a plant health specialist with the Minnesota Department of Agriculture, will discuss with words and photos the new and emerging plant pests facing Minnesota, including emerald ash borer, Asian long-horned beetle, sudden oak death and Sirex woodwasp and how Audubon members can assist in surveying for these and other exotic plant pest organisms. Shimek has more than 20 years experience in his position at the Department of Agriculture. On the front lines in defense against an onslaught of destructive plant pests that threaten our environment and agricultural resources, he coordinates statewide inspections of nursery stock moving into Minnesota and annual inspections of Minnesota nursery stock growers to facilitate the movement of pest-free stock interstate and internationally. When not chasing down nasty bugs, he is also a painter of watercolor illustrations depicting native flora and fauna, including many birds that are on the Audubon’s Minnesota Action list. He will bring along some of his paintings to display for sale.

Tuesday, May 5
at 7:00 p.m.
Mayflower Church