The Ministry of Environment, Natural Resources and Climate Change, in collaboration with the H. Lavity Stoutt Community College (HLSCC) Centre for Applied Marine Studies, will host an “Invasive Species: A Panel Discussion” featuring Joseph Wasilewski, Jeanelle Brisbane and Alberto R. Puente-Rolón on March 17 at the HLSCC Learning Resource Centre Green Room.
The public forum, scheduled for 5 p.m., will focus on the impact of invasive species in the Virgin Islands and the wider Caribbean and will include perspectives from regional experts who have worked on wildlife management across several islands.
According to the event organizers, the discussion will highlight the environmental risks associated with invasive species and provide an opportunity for residents to hear firsthand accounts from specialists working in the region.
Wasilewski, a wildlife expert with the University of Florida, Brisbane, a wildlife ecologist with WildDominique, and Puente-Rolón, a professor at the University of Puerto Rico, are expected to share research and field experiences related to invasive species management.
Organizers said the event will also allow members of the public to engage with local and regional wildlife experts following the presentation during a session that includes light refreshments.
The discussion is part of ongoing efforts to raise awareness about the presence and potential effects of non-native species on ecosystems in the Virgin Islands and neighboring Caribbean territories.
The event will take place at the HLSCC Learning Resource Centre Green Room. Members of the public seeking additional information can contact the Centre for Applied Marine Studies at (284) 541-3055 or by email at camslab@hlscc.edu.vg.
