Join the Hemlock Woolly Adelgid Winter Mapping Challenge

Did you know that winter is the best time to check for hemlock woolly adelgid (HWA)? You can help monitor this invasive species, particularly along the “leading edge” of the distribution that runs across the state.

From February 12 through March 12, NY iMapInvasives and the NYS Hemlock Initiative are hosting NY’s first statewide Winter Mapping Challenge. Join the challenge to help monitor this invasive species and compete to win a prize!

To participate: Get outside, find some hemlock trees, check for white “fuzz balls” on the undersides of twigs, and report your findings to NY iMapInvasives – earning the coveted champion title could be that easy! The top reporter of presence and not-detected records for HWA from February 12 through March 12 will win the challenge.

Visit iMap’s website at https://www.nyimapinvasives.org/ to learn more about the challenge and connect with HWA mapping efforts in your area.

Photo submitted to iMapInvasives by Observer #22202