[APWG] Weed management CD

[Jil_Swearingen at nps.gov]

A new version (5.3) of the US. Army Corps of Engineers CD entitled the
"Noxious and Nuisance Plant Management Information System - PMIS" has just
been released.  This new version has added information on several plant
species, enhanced graphics, better compatibility with Windows XP, and more
thorough expert review.  Copies can be requested by e-mailing Michael
Grodowitz at grodowm at wes.army.mil or visiting
http://www.wes.army.mil/el/pmis/pmishelp.htm to request a copy online.
There are no charges associated with the CD.


For those of you unfamiliar with PMIS here is a quick description:


*****************************************************************************



Noxious and Nuisance Plant Management Information System (PMIS):  A large
number of introduced and naturalized terrestrial, aquatic, and wetland
plant species cause serious problems in many areas of the United States
including U.S. Army Corps of Engineers installations.  The development of
effective management strategies is directly dependent on access to
pertinent and up-to-date information on plant identification, biology,
ecology, and applicable management technologies.  Unfortunately, because of
the tremendous number of plant species and associated management
techniques, access to pertinent and up-to-date information can be a
daunting requirement.  While traditional methods of technology transfer
(including technical reports, scientific papers, oral presentations,
posters, etc.) are adequate more rapid and efficient access is warranted.
Toward this goal, a computer-based information/expert system has been
developed that provide rapid access to current information on the various
management and control methods available for over 100 terrestrial, aquatic,
and wetland plant species.  This system is entitled the "Noxious and
Nuisance Plant Management Information System (PMIS).  The development team
consisted of Dr. Michael Grodowitz, Ms. Sherry Whitaker, Mr. Lavon Jeffers,
Dr. Judy Shearer, Ms. Sonya Lewis, and Dr. Al Cofrancesco.  The systems are
PC-based and operate under the entire Windowsâ operating system family
ensuring a high degree of portability for a wide variety of different
computer configurations.  The systems' technology core was developed
in-house.  Access to the information is accomplished via an easy to use
graphical interface known as the information manager through the use of
in-depth textual information, maps, videos, illustrations, as well as
numerous photographic quality diagrams and images.  Information contained
in the systems includes plant biology, ecology, introduction history,
distribution, identification, basic management concepts, and specific
management strategies.  System use is enhanced through sophisticated
programming algorithms that allow for user-friendly identification of
invasive plant species and associated management options based on
site-specific characteristics.  The information systems are distributed via
CD-ROM's, which allow for user access in many different locations and on
various computer systems.  However, recognizing the need for rapid updates,
these systems are linked to specific web pages allowing for quick updates
as information content evolves and changes.  This hybrid computer and web
based system has proven to be a viable and highly useful technology
transfer mechanism.  The PMIS has been updated numerous times and is now in
its 6th printing (version 5.3).



*****************************************************************************



Michael J. Grodowitz
Team Leader - Biomanagement Team
Phone:  601-634-2972
Fax:  601-634-2398
grodowm at wes.army.mil