Keuka Students Map Invasive Plants Across New York
Two environmental science seniors recorded invasive species locations that state agencies can use to guide removal efforts.
Updated on Nov. 7, 2026 in Botany
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Keuka College seniors Jasmin Carrillo and Emily Fisher mapped invasive plants on New York trails during summer 2026 fieldwork with the state's Invasive Species Strike Team. Their observations were entered into NY iMapInvasives, a state database used to guide removal efforts.
Why it matters
Precise location records give agencies such as the state Department of Environmental Conservation coordinates for finding problem plants. Early mapping also allows removal before invasive species spread widely and become difficult to eliminate.
Carrillo recorded more than 700 location points while surveying suburban walking trails in Erie County. The students' total across all surveyed areas and the number of confirmed new infestations were not reported.
The players
Keuka College
A private liberal arts college in Keuka Park, New York, whose environmental science program placed the students in state fieldwork.
Invasive Species Strike Team
A New York state program that deploys crews to detect and control invasive species, under which the students completed their Field Period experiences.
NY iMapInvasives
A New York state database that collects invasive species location records to support management and removal decisions.
The details
Carrillo and Fisher surveyed near their homes in Buffalo and Hudson Falls, targeting common buckthorn, Oriental bittersweet and Morrow's honeysuckle. They identified plants, photographed them, recorded locations in a geographic information system and noted how far each had spread and whether other invasive species were nearby.
Timeline
Summer 2026: Students complete Field Period fieldwork mapping invasive plants.
2025: Carrillo and Fisher are inducted into Chi Beta Phi, a national science and mathematics honor society.
Nov. 6, 2026: Keuka College publishes its report on the students' work.
Seasonal Patterns
Students' location records feed NY iMapInvasives, the state mapping system that has tracked invasive plants across New York. Their survey work extends that statewide record with new points from suburban and rural areas.
Residents who walk trails near Buffalo, Hudson Falls or Lake George can report invasive plants they encounter through the state database. Recognizing common buckthorn, Oriental bittersweet and Morrow's honeysuckle helps people avoid spreading them on hiking routes.
The takeaway
Careful location records from trained students can give state crews the data needed to remove invasive plants early. Anyone walking New York trails can help by noticing and reporting these species.
Further reading
Explore more on Botany for related plant research coverage across New York.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Fingerlakes1.
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