Field Trips

NAISMA hosts the only conference to bridge geographic divides across North America in invasive species management. Network with natural resource managers, researchers, and leaders in the invasive species field.

2022 Annual Conference Field Trips

The Orlando area is home to some of the best wildlife and unique habitats in North America — as well as numerous invasive species challenges and successes. Many thanks to co-hosts Florida Invasive Species Council for connecting us with tour sites and guides that showcase invasive species management in such a verdant environment.

All field trips include a box lunch.

TNC/Disney Wilderness Preserve

November 9th, 12:00 pm – 5:00pm

We’ll explore the Disney Wilderness Preserve on an 18-passenger swamp buggy to see how it is shaped by fire and has a relatively open structure. Mitigation involved wetland and upland habitat restoration activities including control of non-native, invasive plants, controlled burns in fire-dependent habitats, mechanical removal of overgrown shrubs and trees resulting from fire suppression, and removal of agricultural ditches. Today it is largely managed with controlled burns and non-native invasive plant control. The swamp buggy involves a steep climb to enter, and participants will need to sign a liability waiver. More information: https://www.nature.org/en-us/get-involved/how-to-help/places-we-protect/the-disney-wilderness-preserve/

Orlando Wetlands Park

Nov. 9, 12:00 pm – 5:00 pm and

Nov. 10, 12:00 pm – 5:00 pm

Orlando Wetlands Park is a 1,650-acre man-made wetland that provides advanced treatment for reclaimed water from the City of Orlando and surrounding areas. The Park includes nineteen miles of berms that encompass 18 wetland cells and the 75-acre Lake Searcy. The system provides habitat for many fauna, including over 200 bird species, otters, foxes, deer, turtles, snakes and alligators. The abundant flora (2 million aquatic plants and 200,000 trees were planted to create the wetland) provide habitat while polishing the water before it flows to the St. Johns River. The Park welcomes many thousands of visitors every year and is known around the world for its attraction to migratory birds. A visit to Orlando Wetlands Park offers an excellent opportunity for nature study, bird and wildlife watching, botanical exploration, nature photography and peaceful enjoyment. Park guides (including bird, butterfly, plant and wildlife checklists) and much more information are available on the website at https://www.orlando.gov/Parks-the-Environment/Directory/Wetlands-Park

Canaveral National Seashore

Nov. 10, 12:00 pm – 6:00 pm

Canaveral National Seashore contains nearly 58,000 acres of barrier island, open lagoon, coastal hammock, pine flatwoods, and offshore waters. With 24 miles of pristine beach, it is prime habitat for many threatened and endangered species providing nesting beaches for several thousand protected marine turtles. Two thirds of the park is in Mosquito Lagoon. The lagoon is designated an estuary of national significance and an outstanding Florida water. It is one of the most diverse and productive estuaries in North America. The national seashore also contains cultural resources that reflect human history in the Florida peninsula from 2000 BC to early 20th century Florida settlement. Ranger and botanist to provide 2 hour walking tour to NAISMA attendees that will include invasive plant management, native species protection, habitat restoration, etc. Closed toe shoes, sunscreen/protection and bottled water required. More information: https://www.nps.gov/cana/index.htm