Key Takeaways:
- WSSA leaders joined APMS’s annual meeting, emphasizing cross-society collaboration and research innovation
- Key sessions addressed novel hydrilla infestations in the Northeast and a new white paper on harmful algal blooms
- Funding concerns for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ Aquatic Plant Control program dominated policy discussions
- Student scientists presented 24 posters and talks, reflecting strong emerging talent in the field
- WSSA plans continued engagement at the 2026 APMS meeting in Phoenix, Arizona
WSSA and APMS Align on Aquatic Plant and Algae Research
The Weed Science Society of America (WSSA) recently participated in the Aquatic Plant Management Society’s (APMS) annual meeting, held July 14–17 in Providence, Rhode Island. This year’s event featured several collaborative highlights, including focused discussions on aquatic invasive species and harmful algal blooms (HABs), with WSSA President Hilary Sandler and Executive Director of Science Policy Lee Van Wychen in attendance.
Lyn Gettys, incoming APMS president, praised the presence of WSSA leadership: “This provided a great opportunity for collaboration, cross-pollination, and network-building between our societies.”
Novel Hydrilla and Harmful Algal Blooms Take Center Stage
Two major plenary sessions underscored the urgency of aquatic plant issues. The first, “The Novel Hydrilla in the Northeast,” featured recorded remarks from Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and presentations from experts at the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE).
The second, hosted in partnership with the Council for Agricultural Science and Technology (CAST), launched a white paper on harmful algal blooms, with presentations coordinated by APMS/CAST liaison Dr. Gray Turnage. Contributors included scientists from Florida Atlantic University, Ohio State University, and international institutions.
Policy Spotlight: Aquatic Plant Control Funding in Jeopardy
A major policy discussion centered on continued funding for the USACE’s Aquatic Plant Control Research (APCR) program. Though both the House and Senate included APCR funding in their FY 2025 bills, the program was omitted from the final USACE-Civil Works workplan, citing its exclusion from the President’s budget. “There was a glimmer of hope for renewed funding recently when the House Appropriations Committee marked up the Energy and Water Bill,” said Van Wychen, noting a proposed $3 million allocation for both APCR and flowering rush/hydrilla research in FY 2026.
The APCR program, originally authorized by the 1958 River and Harbor Act, has lacked presidential budget inclusion since 1996 but has received annual Congressional funding regardless.
Student Engagement and Future Plans
This year’s meeting showcased strong academic participation, with 15 student oral presentations and 9 posters. Gettys noted that the quality of work made selecting competition winners especially challenging.
Looking ahead, the 66th APMS annual meeting is scheduled for July 13–16, 2026, in Phoenix, Arizona. WSSA members are expected to participate again, continuing to advance joint scientific goals. “Our member-scientists are excited about opportunities for future collaborations,” said WSSA President Sandler, who actively participated in multiple sessions and networking events throughout the conference
