We're 15 days from spring!

Maybe more than ever before, we are yearning for the blooms and fresh start that spring brings. However, once your eyes are opened to the prevalence of invasive species, it is easy for that to be all you see!  It is so easy to feel overwhelmed and easily defeated when honeysuckle, garlic mustard, and other invasives seem to take over our yards and natural areas. 

BUT, I am optimistic this year because I see the fantastic work that HIP is doing and the great opportunities we have to educate our friends and neighbors and make a difference that results in more natives and less invasives across the county, state, and nation. While I am optimistic, there is a lot of work to be done and spring is arguably the best time to make an impact on minds that leads to an impact on the land. To do this, we need hearts, minds, and hands to join our HIP efforts and take on roles in our education and technical committees. Please take a moment to review the March meeting notes (meeting recording also available) below and register for an upcoming committee meeting.

You might also notice HIP showing up in your inbox more often this spring. We will have call to action requests and opportunities for you to volunteer at Weed Wrangles and spread the word on invasive species.  We will also be celebrating the first ever Hamilton County Invasive Species Awareness Week May 15-22nd.  

Review our 2021 goals here.
See something that interests you? Join us to help put it in action!

Next HIP Meeting
HIP general meetings are held on the first Wednesday of the month, alternating between noon and six pm.  Join us on April 7th at 6pm on zoom.

March General Meeting Agenda/Notes
The agenda and notes from the March General meeting are available below. This meeting was also recorded and can be viewed here (0+dnBAF*).

See upcoming trainings, events, and volunteer opportunities on the HIP website

Meets on 3rd Wednesday of
the month at noon.

Education Committee
The ed com. is working on identifying the best ways to connect with target audiences, the new HIP website and educational resources, Boot Brush station development, planning for the Hamilton County Invasive Species Awareness Week and Weed Wrangles, and more. Your time and talents would be welcome additions!

Meets on the 2nd Wednesday
of the month at 2:30.

Technical Committee Meeting 
The tech comm is planning Strike Team events, figuring out GIS mapping/reporting options, training to offer invasive species site assessments, and more. There is a study group/materials for those interested in obtaining their pesticide applicator certification. They will also be calling on others to report phenology info related to the timing of invasive species leaf out, seed set, blooming, etc. across the county. 

Education Station
Jamison Hutchins, Stewardship Manager for the Central Indiana Land Trust, presented on CILTI's stewardship approach & gave on overview of some of their properties. His presentation starts at the 13 minute mark of the meeting recording

Sign up to give an Education Station presentation here.

Other Updates and Info

HIP in the news

Upcoming Meetings
1st Wednesday of each month, alternating day and evening meetings. All meetings are virtual until further notice.

Dates and registration links for these meetings can be found at www.hcinvasives.org/hip-meetings

Upcoming events & important dates

View here: www.hcinvasives.org/events

Order HIP Gear from Lands' End

You can get the HIP logo embroidered on any of thousands of items available through Lands' End Business.   Shop from the HIP store to get started!

317.773.2181 | hcinvasives@hamiltoncounty.in.gov
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