Victor Maddox
Invasive plant species are a problem throughout the United States. Much of the map data currently available lacks accurate georeferencing, or is otherwise outdated as a result of older herbarium records. Newer georeferenced data is needed which can be utilized in modeling efforts as a component of early detection and rapid response (EDRR) and management activities. Perhaps more than in other parts of the United States, this need is apparent in the MidSouth (AL, AR, LA, MS, TN). The Invasive Plant Atlas of the MidSouth (IPAMS) was designed to facilitate this need, as well as other goals. IPAMS will provide information on the biology, distribution, and best management practices for forty invasive plant species. Outreach and extension activities include developing training programs for volunteers to identify and report invasive species using IPAMS, developing an effective Early Detection and Rapid Response (EDRR) system for invasive plants, developing best management practices workshops, and developing an online mapping system. Launched in early 2008, IPAMS (http://www.gri.msstate.edu/ipams/) is now receiving georeferenced data, following the NAWMA standard (developed by the North American Weed Management Association), from the MidSouth and other regions of the United States. Data will be shared with the National Biological Information Infrastructure (NBII) and other databases. IPAMS data will be botanist verified and data points are displayed on an ArcIMS map for web users to view.
Keywords: INVASIVE SPECIES, DATABASE, EDRR, MAPPING, CITIZEN SCIENTIST VOLUNTEER
