Susan L. West

This document outlines the guidelines for the Partnership for Region Invasive Species Management (PRISM) 5-Year Strategic Plan. It details required sections including goals, objectives, strategies, deliverables, and metrics for success. The key areas of focus include PRISM structure and partnerships, outreach and education, monitoring and information management, early detection and rapid response, prevention, control and management, research and field trials, resource development and funding, restoration, and climate change considerations.

The Council discussed collaborative projects between the Pennsylvania Game Commission and the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy, specifically focusing on the development of digital invasive species field guides and collaborative survey work. The Pennsylvania Association of Conservation Districts provided an update on the pilot Partnerships for Regional Invasive Species Management (PRISM) program in Northwest Pennsylvania, highlighting the 13-county pilot scope, funding distribution, and administrative structure. Additionally, the Communications Committee reported on the recent Pennsylvania Native Species Day and preparations for an upcoming e-newsletter and biennial report. The Legislative Committee discussed outreach to the Shapiro administration and drafting legislative language. Finally, the Invasive Species Listing Committee announced the release of an updated invasive plant list and the completion of several new species risk assessments.

The Commission addressed several key business items, including the approval of various Nutrient and Odor Management Plans for agricultural operations. Discussions focused on the Nutrient Management Budget for the upcoming fiscal year, delegation amounts for conservation districts, and contracts with Penn State University for education programs. Additionally, proposed changes to the Dirt, Gravel, and Low Volume Roads (DGLVR) program administrative manual were approved. The meeting also included updates on the Chesapeake Bay Agriculture Inspection Program, fee policy revisions, and the Agriculture Conservation Assistance Program. The Commission reviewed reports on program accomplishments, delegation agreements, and conservation practices, while also coordinating with cooperating agencies on shared initiatives.

The council meeting covered various updates, including an introduction to the Blue Ridge Partnerships for Regional Invasive Species Management (PRISM), legislative committee updates regarding the Invasive Species Act, and communications committee initiatives. The listing committee presented on the invasive species tiering process and risk assessment tools for plant species. Additional presentations detailed the Invasive Replacive program for native tree distribution, the celebration of Pennsylvania Native Species Day, and aquatic invasive species outreach efforts. The Department of Agriculture provided updates on the spotted lanternfly program, and information was shared regarding the Agricultural Innovation Program grant opportunities and upcoming aquatic invasive species webinars.

The meeting included a tour of the Octoraro Native Plant Nursery followed by several presentations focused on invasive species management and ecological restoration. Key topics covered included the use of forested buffers for stream health, adaptive management strategies at Longwood Gardens, the impacts of invasive plants on bird populations and biodiversity, and a case study on the Little Cacoosing Creek habitat restoration project.