Invader Updater

1. Introduced species of vertebrates, some of which become established and cause ecological and economic damage in addition to negatively impacting human quality of life are a significant concern in Florida and elsewhere. Pythons in the Everglades, several iguana species in South Florida, and red-eared sliders throughout the state of Florida are prime examples. Considering the problems caused by invasive species and the interest of the public about invasive animals and methods to deal with them, it is essential that extension professionals and environmental educators be knowledgeable about current issues and management strategies for invasive animals.

The Invader Updater is a quarterly newsletter that provides information on invasive species of animals for busy extension professionals. Although the main area of emphasis is Florida, the newsletter contains information of interest to extension professionals across the US. Each issue of this e-Newsletter highlights a focal species, summarizes recent peer-reviewed literature, provides updates on important legislation, summarizes innovations in invasive species management, and lists numerous online resources. Information provided in the newsletter is supported in more detail by Dr. Steve Johnson’s wildlife website and the social media site Facebook. The newsletter was developed by and is maintained and published by Dr. Steve Johnson (UF Associate Professor and Extension Specialist) and Monica McGarrity (IFAS Biological Scientists). The Invader Updater is free to anyone who requests to be added to the email list.

Measuring Invader Updater impacts is via tracking the growing number of subscribers. A survey of current subscribers is planned to inquire about how useful the information included in the newsletter has been and how it can be improved to meet the needs of busy extension professionals.

Files

Invader Updater Newsletter 1

This is a PDF file of the newsletter described in my application.

Invader Updater Newsletter 2

This is a PDF file of the newsletter described in my application.