CANTON — The Canton Park and Trail Committee, Oxford County Soil and Water Conservation District and the Maine Forest Service are hosting an invasive forest species discussion and trail walk at 9 a.m. Friday, Aug. 7, at the Canton Town Office.

The discussion will feature Hemlock Woolly Adelgid, the winter moth, the Asian long-horned beetle and the emerald ash borer. The host trees involved include all hardwoods, fruit trees and hemlock.

The goal is for attendees to develop an awareness of their own impact on the spread of invasive pests and a light recognition of these insects. Participants will develop a beginning knowledge of targeted host trees and a broader understanding of the environmental needs of healthy trees.

A trail walk on the Whitney Brook Trail will be held after the invasive species presentation where specific host trees will be identified, linked with the predator and different stressors for trees pointed out.

The trail starts at Canton Heritage Park. The walk will proceed at a leisurely pace giving opportunity to ask questions and have them answered before ending by noon. The 1.7-mile main trail is easy walking through floodplain forest, fields and forested wetland.

Jean Federico, education and outreach coordinator, Oxford County Soil and Water Conservation District, will lead the discussion about the invasive species. Merle Ring, Maine Forest Service district forester for Oxford County, will lead the trail walk and discussion.

The event is being provided free, with advance registration by Saturday, Aug. 1. A rain date is scheduled for Aug. 14.

Those who wish to register should email [email protected] and provide contact information with the number of people attending.

Coffee and doughnuts will be available before the classroom presentation. Participants should dress appropriately and bring bug spray, water and other necessary comfort items.