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Wild Ones: Invasive Jumping Worms in Illinois

Online Program

Chris Evans review what we know about invasive jumping worms, their potential impacts to natural ecosystems and managed landscapes, and what can and should be done about them. Registration required.

The public is invited to the monthly meetings of the Lake-to-Prairie chapter of the Wild Ones, a national not-for-profit organization that promotes the use of native plants in landscapes.

Invasive Jumping Worms in Illinois

Speaker: Chris Evans

This new invasive species was first identified in Illinois in 2015 but has since been found across the state. Jumping worms, native to East Asia, are voracious consumers of organic material, which can affect soil quality. They breed quickly and eggs survive Illinois winters. There are concerns about the effects these worms will have on forests and other natural spaces as well as agricultural and landscaped areas. Populations of jumping worms have the potential to change the soil structure, deplete available nutrients, damage plant roots, and alter water holding capacity of the soil.

This presentation will review what we know about jumping worms, their potential impacts to natural ecosystems and managed landscapes, and what can and should be done about them.

Chris Evans is an Extension Forestry and Research Specialist with the University of Illinois. He specializes in invasive species and forest health issues. Chris also serves as the Interim State Coordinator of the Illinois Master Naturalist Program and is president of the Southern Chapter of the Illinois Native Plant Society.

Registration is required. To register, click on the REGISTER button on this page.

This program will take place online; you will receive an email confirmation with the link when you register. Click that link at the start time to join us.
 

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