Penn State Extension Webinar: Japanese Knotweed

Japanese knotweed (Reynoutria japonica) is among the most aggressive invasive plants in North America, known for damaging infrastructure, displacing native species, and forming dense monocultures along waterways and other disturbed landscapes. This webinar examines the plant's origins, its introduction and spread across the United States, and the biological traits that make it such a persistent management challenge. Participants will gain practical guidance on identifying Japanese knotweed in the field and learn about current best practices for effective control and long-term management. Pennsylvania has identified over 250 invasive plants, insects, pathogens, and animals that significantly impact the environment and agricultural production--causing hundreds of millions of dollars in economic losses each year. The Pennsylvania Invasive Species Webinar Series is dedicated to addressing this critical issue. Each session highlights timely topics related to invasive species in Pennsylvania and beyond, including species identification, management strategies, ecological impacts, or key concepts in invasion biology. The series is designed to be accessible to a wide audience. Whether you're a gardener, naturalist, land manager, educator, or simply curious about invasive species, these webinars provide a clear introduction to the issues at hand--no prior knowledge required. By raising awareness and sharing practical information, the series aims to empower communities and spotlight the ongoing efforts of state agencies and partners working to protect Pennsylvania's landscapes and resources. Who is this for? Conservation volunteer educators Green industry professionals Master Gardeners Individuals interested in learning about invasive species What will you learn? The origin and introduction history of Japanese knotweed Ecological, structural, and economic impacts caused by infestations Key identification features to distinguish Japanese knotweed from similar species Effective management and control strategies This webinar is being presented in partnership with the Pennsylvania Governor's Invasive Species Council. This event is being offered at no charge to participants. Registration is required to receive the link to access the webinar