ABOUT THE PROGRAM

Are you concerned about the impact of invasive plants on Rhode Island’s landscape? Do you want to build the knowledge and skills to manage invasive species and restore native habitats? Whether you’re an environmental or landscape professional, land manager, homeowner, or concerned community member, our Invasive Plant Management Trainings offer science-based education and practical management strategies to address this pressing ecological challenge. See the module descriptions below for all our offerings. 

Since 2008, URI Cooperative Extension has partnered with the Rhode Island Coastal Resources Management Council (CRMC) and the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (RIDEM) to offer the Invasive Plant Management Certification Program. This certification prepares professionals working in regulated coastal and riparian areas to provide sustainable plant management services to clients. Participants interested in earning certification as a Rhode Island Invasive Manager must register for and complete Modules A, B, and C. Individuals who are not seeking certification or who work outside the coastal zone are welcome to attend any of the training modules to expand their knowledge of invasive plants and their environmental impacts.

TRAINING MODULES

Module A: Global Issues, Climate Implications & Novel Approaches to Invasive Plant Management
An introductory six-module workshop covering global invasive species concerns, plant migration in the face of a changing climate, an overview of common invasive plants and endemic vegetation to Rhode Island, and novel biological and grazing approaches to invasive plant management.

Total Instruction Time: 3.75 hours
Cost: $100.00/person

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Module B: Science and Systems for Landscape Biodiversity & Control Methods
A full day, in-person workshop on the systems science behind invasive species ecology. Site assessment techniques and chemical, mechanical, and holistic approaches to management will be covered.

Location: URI Narragansett Bay Campus
Cost: $175.00/person

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Module C: Coastal Rules and Regulations in Rhode Island
A full day, in-person workshop in partnership with CRMC covering the rules and regulations of coastal buffer zone invasive species management to obtain CRMC certification as an invasive plant manager. 

Location: URI Narragansett Bay Campus
Cost: $175.00/person

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Module F: Plant ID, Site Assessment & Management Projects Field Demo
A 2.5 hour field walkabout at Canonchet Farm on invasive and native plant identification and approaches to management with a field botanist; a showcase of long-term and current invasive plant management control projects led by volunteer project managers.

Time: 9 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. OR 12:30 p.m. – 3 p.m.
Location: Canonchet Farm, Narragansett, RI
Cost: $100.00/person