INVASIVE SPECIES AWARENESS WEEK PROVIDES OPPORTUNITY FOR EDUCATION ON PREVENTING SPECIES SPREAD

This week is National Invasive Species Awareness Week, providing a perfect opportunity for Northern Wisconsiners to become educated on invasive plants and plan ahead for the upcoming gardening season.

Invasive species are not native to our area. They have a negative impact on the state’s economy and ecology and pose a threat to our health. These plants can erode natural habitat and could potentially reduce biodiversity and crop growth. Forest regeneration can be negatively affected and there can even be damage to the ecological infrastructure. The DNR encourages the public to help prevent the spread of invasive species by planting native plants in backyards, or on decks and in garden spaces, helping Wisconsin’s pollinators and natural areas.

Outdoor enthusiasts are encouraged to clean boots, pets or any other gear before leaving a site, as doing so keeps seeds from being carried to a new location. It is important to learn about and manage invasive species whenever possible.