2026 AIS Short Course
Hello!
Missoula County Department of Ecology and Extension is excited to announce the 2026 Western Aquatic Invasive Species Short Course. This event will bring together scientists, educators, and managers to share knowledge and develop solutions to prevent and manage AIS.
This year, the short course will host speakers from across the Pacific Northwest covering aquatic plant management, species identification workshops, emerging herbicide and eDNA technologies, as well as question and answer panels to facilitate discussion on regional management practices. Draft agenda and poster attached for reference!

Mark your calendars!
- Dates: April 29th-30th
- Time: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. each day
- Location: Exploration Center- 1075 South Ave W, Missoula, MT 59801 (in-person only)
Attendees can expect to:
- Hear from experts on AIS identification, prevention, control, and management.
- Discover innovative technologies, research findings, and best practices for combating AIS.
- Connect with colleagues, partners, and potential collaborators from across the country.
- Earn Continuing Education Units (CEUs) for applicator licenses.
- Participate in interactive panel discussions to help develop cohesive action plans that span region and program to better protect our collective aquatic resources.
Registration is open now through April 10th.
Click the link to register: AIS Short Course
Reach out with any questions,
Clarissa Orton