Invasive plants topic of public meeting

Invasive plants are gaining a foothold in several sections of northcentral Pennsylvania.

Some of their names conjure up visions of B movies from the '60s: giant hogweed, Japanese knotweed, mile-a-minute weed.

The latter species has been multiplying in an area along Sinnemahoning Creek near the village of Wharton and is seen in spotty patches elsewhere in the region.

Measures to control noxious weeds will be the focus of a

public meeting scheduled Wednesday, Nov. 8, at Austin Area School, starting at 5:30 p.m. The Pa. Agriculture Department has scheduled the "town meeting" to share details on invasive plant idenification and offer control options. Residents and camp owners are encouraged to attend.

Guest speaker will be Melissa Bravo, a weed scientist from the Agriculture Department and crop consultant. Her current title is state giant hogweed coordinator.