Invasive Species
Making Themselves At Home in Wisconsin's Lakes and Landscapes
Wisconsin faces an onslaught of invasive species from other regions and countries. These non-native
plants, animals and pathogens displace native species, disrupt ecosystems, and harm recreational activities
such as fishing, boating, and hiking. They also damage commercial, agricultural, and aquacultural resources.
Because they lack the predators and competitors they faced in their homelands, invasive species can
spread rapidly and aggressively. Controlling invasive species is difficult, and getting rid of them
is often impossible. People play a major role in spreading invasive species, and can also help keep
them from spreading. We can save our favorite places if we all do our part!
Learn more about a few of the invaders that have been making headlines this summer:
- Hydrilla is an invasive aquatic plant that was confirmed
for the first time in Wisconsin in summer 2007. It was found in a private artificial pond, and the
Department of Agriculture, Trade, and Consumer Protection is taking the lead in responding. See their
press release (exit DNR) for
more information.
- VHS, a fish disease that can kill a broad range of Wisconsin’s
native fish. It has recently been found in Lake Michigan and the Winnebago system.
- Spiny Water Fleas are an invasive species of zooplankton that
can disrupt ecosystems and harm native fish populations. They have recently been found in a second
inland lake in Wisconsin.
- Emerald Ash Borer is a forest beetle that has already killed 20 million ash trees in the Midwest. Emerald Ash Borer was identified for the first time in August 2008 in Ozaukee County, Wisconsin.
Find more information about other invasive species on these pages:
The Good News About Invasive Species
The good news is that many places in Wisconsin don’t have the most common and troublesome invasive species. For instance, only a small fraction of our 15,000 lakes have Eurasian water-milfoil or zebra mussels. There is a lot that people can do to prevent the spread of invasive species, and we have a lot left to protect!
How You Can Help
Whether your passion is boating or bicycling, fishing or flowers, there are some
simple steps you can take to keep from spreading unwanted species
around. There are also many volunteer opportunities for those who want to get more involved in the
fight to keep our lakes, forests, prairies, and wetlands free of invasive species. We need your help!
Contact Information
Last Revised: Friday November 21 2008
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