In observance of New York Invasive Species Awareness Week (NYISAW), there will be a special two-part event held in downtown Watertown. The event will begin out front of City Hall for a guided walk and talk through the city’s Urban Arboretum. The arboretum has over 35 different species of trees and is located between Sterling and Stone Street one block south of Public Square. By joining the walk, you will learn about the history of the Arboretum and the trees that make it special, along with invasive pests that threaten the health of the trees, and an opportunity to join a Tree Pilot Project to monitor the trees for signs of health decline.

After the walk, you’re invited to attend a special invasive species-themed art exhibit that will be on display at the Tug Hill Tomorrow Land Trust’s office space located inside the Barton & Loguidice Building at 120 Washington St Suite 510, Watertown, NY 13601. The art exhibit will showcase art contributed by the community and ART 315 members, as well as students from Indian River Lakes, Lowville Central, and other local schools.