Spotted Knapweed Pull at Wisconsin Point

The Lake Superior National Estuarine Research Reserve and Friends of the Lake Superior Reserve are hosting a volunteer opportunity focused on removing Spotted Knapweed from Wisconsin Point. Volunteers will meet at Lot #5 at 9:30 am for a brief introduction before dispersing to locations where Spotted Knapweed is the most prominent.

Spotted Knapweed is a prolific non-local plant that, when widespread, can prevent native plants from growing and decrease the biodiversity of the habitat. It's particularly effective at outcompeting other plants by exuding a chemical from it's roots, preventing the growth of other plants. For more information check out the DNR's info page on the plant:

Spotted knapweed | (Centaurea biebersteinii) | Wisconsin DNR

On July 18th, community members of all ages are invited to the point to support healthy ecosystems for local, native plants. No prior experience with Spotted Knapweed is required. This event will involve physical activity like walking, crouching, kneeling, and pulling.

Spotted Knapweed can cause skin irritation if direct contact is made with the plant. Gloves will be provided, but it is recommended to wear long sleeves, pants, and closed toed shoes.

We will provide:

• Snacks
• Water
• Extra gloves for people who don't have any
• Contractor bags
• First aid kit
• Hand wash station

You could bring:

• A refillable water bottle
• Gardening/work gloves if you have them (spotted knapweed can cause some skin irritation if you have direct contact with it)
• Sunscreen
• Bugspray
• A pad to kneel on if you have one, since we are hand-pulling

This event is co-hosted by the Lake Superior National Estuarine Research Reserve and the Friends of the Lake Superior Reserve.

All activities are designed with access in mind. You may request an interpreter, materials in an alternative language or format, more information, or other services to make this program more accessible. Contact Melissa Burke via email at [email protected] or phone at 715-399-4138 ideally by June 19. Please reach out even after that date and we'll see what we can do. Services are provided at no cost to you.

The University of Wisconsin–Madison Division of Extension provides equal opportunities in employment and programming in compliance with state and federal law.

Participants are encouraged to join us in attending Lake Superior Day festivities on Barker's Island the following day (Sunday, July 20)!

Info: Lake Superior Reserve staff and FOLSR will introduce themselves, WI Point, and the purpose of the knapweed pull.

Info: Reserve staff and FOLSR will identify some spotted knapweed, talk about some features of the plant, and the best removal method for this event. Reserve staff and FOLSR will also convey safety information for during the event.

Info: All volunteers will work together to remove Spotted Knapweed from WI Point.

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Host or Publisher Friends of the Lake Superior Reserve