In January 2019, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) cancelled its annual Interagency Research Forum on Invasive Species, which had been scheduled to take place in Maryland from January 8 to 11. The forum, which is now in its 30th year, brings together over 300 scientists from around the world to discuss and coordinate research on the threats posed by invasive species and possible management options.
USDA officials indicated that, due to the partial government shutdown, the 2019 forum could not be held as scheduled. The forum website was subsequently updated to read:
“The 30th Research Forum will not be rescheduled during 2019. Logistics coordinating with speakers and the hotel are just not feasible.
We are working with the hotel on dates for a meeting in 2020.”