Extension to host Giant African Land Snail Workshop

(MIAMI, March 20, 2012) – The Miami-Dade Cooperative Extension Division is hosting a FREE workshop on Friday, March 23, 2012, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., at the Miami Science Museum, located at 3280 South Miami Avenue.  The objective of the workshop is to educate the public on properly identifying and controlling the Giant African Land Snail (GALS) pest.   As of today, 37,000 snails have been found in Miami-Dade County.  Scientists consider GALS to be one of the most damaging snails in the world, known to consume at least 500 different types of plants and posing a serious health risk to humans. 

In addition, GALS could be devastating to Florida’s agriculture and natural areas and can cause extensive damage to tropical and subtropical environments. During the workshop, experts will address the following:  General GALS management in the landscape, general characteristics and identification, and the current status of GALS in Miami-Dade County. 

For more information call 305-248-3311 ext. 225 or click here to register online.