On November 20, 2004, Friends brought together more than forty volunteers, concerned citizens, and agency representatives to explore threats to native ecosystems posed by invasive plant species in the Gorge.

A national and regional overview of the problem provided context for the afternoon's discussions. Activists and environmental professionals described local impacts on native wildflowers, forests, riparian zones, and wildlife. Panels addressed management strategies and techniques, and success stories from specific stewardship projects.

Participants agreed that coordinating efforts will be key to making significant progress in limiting the impact of invasives on the landscape. Educational outreach and advocacy for existing and new resources to protect native ecosystems from exotic plants were identified as key areas for focus in the coming year. 

Symposium presenters included:

• Jurgen Hess, introductory speaker: retired landscape architect with the US Forest Service National Scenic Area (NSA) office;
• Barbara Robinson of The Discovery Center in The Dalles;
• Jerry Igo, Native Plant Society of Oregon;
• Lynn Gibbons, groundskeeper at Menucha and the Franciscan sisters' center;
• Caroline Cox of Northwest Coalition for Alternatives to Pesticides;
• Dave Kruse, volunteer crew leader at Tryon Creek State Park;
• John Cowan, Oregon Dept. of Parks and Recreation;
• Sandy Diedrich, No Ivy League; 
• Robin Dobson, US Forest Service NSA office.

To get involved, please email Karen Hardigg atmailto:karen@gorgefriends.org, or Betsy Toll at mailto:betsy@gorgefriends.org. Or call our office at 503-241-3762 in Portland or 541-386-5268 in Hood River.