What You Can Do to Make A Difference

Volunteering and reporting are both important steps to tackle established infestations of invasive plants on the ground, but equally so is preventing them from establishing in the first place.  Prevention is our first line of defense against the introduction and spread of invasive species.  It is also more cost effective than the control and containment efforts that come later.  Prevention steps can be practiced by all of us within the context of our every day life.  

Educate & Encourage - Learn to identify invasive plant species and pass it on!  Don’t be afraid to share what you’ve learned with those around you.  Consider partnering with neighbors to control invasive species where you live and encourage your neighborhood or homeowners association to become involved.  Remember, invasive plants do not adhere to political or man-made boundaries.  Your hard work could be lost if you are not connecting with those who own adjacent lands.  

Advocate - Ask your political representatives at the local, state, and national levels to stand behind invasive species legislation and funding initiatives that support invasive species education and control efforts. 

Volunteer - Give your time to help remove invasive species from public lands and natural areas.  The Door County Invasive Species Team is continuously looking for those willing to share their time and talents with us!  A variety of opportunities can be found throughout the County whether it is inventorying invasive plants, conducting education outreach with boaters and other groups, or rolling up your sleeves to control invaders yourself.  For current and on-going opportunities, visit our Volunteer page or subscribe to our e-newsletter.  

Report - We need your help locating invasive species in Door County!  Report new or expanded invasive plant outbreaks on our Reporting page or send an email to dcist1@gmail.com.  If you can, take pictures of plants and include them.    

Support - Consider making a donation to the Door County Invasive Species Team or other conservation organizations working to make a difference in Door County.  You can download our donation form here.