AQUATIC AND WETLAND PLANTS: A WORKSHOP ON NATIVE AND EXOTIC SPECIES,

INCLUDING SELECTED AQUARIUM AND WATER-GARDEN FORMS

Maximum: 30 people. Time: 12:30 – 4 PM Coordinator: Robert G. Howells (bobhowells@hctc.net), 160 Bearskin Trail, Kerrville, TX 78028, PH: 830-367-5940 This workshop will cover identification and basic biology of native aquatic and wetland macrophytes, introduced exotic species, and comments on additional forms from aquarium and water-garden culture. Topics will include a basic introduction to aquatic and wetland plants as well as invasive species and their source, pathways, and impacts. Floating, emergent, submersed, and wetland-riparian species will be addressed. Non-native species reported in Texas and legal restrictions on exotic plants will also be covered. The workshop will include an extensive Power Point presentation with a large number of photographs, illustrations, and actual specimens. Additionally, a display of introduced exotic mollusks in Texas will be available. About the Instructor: Bob Howells is a fisheries scientist/aquatic ecologist with experience with exotic plants, fishes, and shellfishes, in addition to his work with freshwater mussels and general freshwater and marine fisheries research. Work history included classes and lectures on the staff of the Cleveland Museum of Natural History, 10 years with Ichthyological Associates, Inc. (an environmental consulting firm), and 22 years with Texas Parks and Wildlife Department’s (TPWD) Heart of the Hills Fisheries Science Center. He retired from (TPWD) in mid-2006, but has continued work in the field as a consultant (BioStudies) and continues to conduct personal research and writing. His publications include several books, as wells as scientific journal articles, technical reports, and educational materials. This current workshop is an updated expansion of programs prepared previously for the Texas Aquatic Plant Management Society and Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.