COPRISM – Central Ohio Partnership for Regional Invasive Species Management

Who We Are

We are a regional partnership working to protect Central Ohio’s natural resources, public health, safety, and economy through a coordinated approach to prevent, combat, and improve awareness of invasive species. We represent government agencies, non-profit organizations, businesses, community groups and concerned citizens. Our focus is on all types of invasive species, including terrestrial and aquatic plants and animals, pests and pathogens.

Where We Focus

The 17-county COPRISM region represents both an ecological and political boundary, covering nearly all the Upper Scioto River watershed, as well as the districts of governmental agencies like the Ohio Department of Natural Resources and the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency, among others.

Our Goals

Leadership & Coordination – Use existing stakeholder resources, provide direction and pursue resources around common priorities to prevent the spread of and manage invasive species in Central Ohio

Prevention, Early Detection & Rapid Response – Establish proven detection and communication networks in Central Ohio to efficiently recognize, monitor and address new invasive species populations

Management – Across sectors, help facilitate partnerships, communications, resource-sharing, monitoring and research to comprehensively combat invasive species in Central Ohio

Outreach & Education – Support consistent, targeted messaging and training opportunities for stakeholders, land stewards, educators, citizens and public officials that will enable invasive species prevention and management in Central Ohio

Regulation & Policy – Use current research and data to assist in the development and revision of policies and regulations for prevention and management of invasive species in Central Ohio

Attend a Meeting

All are welcome to attend meetings. As of now, 2021 meetings will be conducted via Zoom. Contact us for a link to our next meeting.

• January 5, 2021 from 10am – 12pm

• April 6, 2021 from 10am – 12pm

• August 3, 2021 from 10am – 12pm

• November 2, 2021 from 10am – 12pm

Get Involved

If you are interested in getting involved with COPRISM or want to know more, please email us at centralohprism@gmail.com or send us a message below. All are welcome. You do not need to be an expert or affiliated with an organization. The types of activities and support needed may include things like website assistance, outreach and networking, volunteer projects, local advocacy, data collection and research, grant writing, graphic design, and content expertise such as botanical knowledge.