On Wednesday, May 15th host Tim Hansel talked with Wisconsin DNR representative Kelly Kearns about invasive species across the state. Everyone knows invasive species are bad – but why? What’s their history? How do you identify them and what can you do about it if you see one?
Kearns answered these questions and more, elaborating on how invasive species were brought into the United States and Wisconsin specifically and how, without natural predation, they can quickly out-compete and destroy native populations. Specifically, she and Hansel focused on garlic mustard, a plant which blooms at this time of year. Garlic mustard is especially detrimental because it spreads into forest areas, where it can destroy natural herbaceous forest cover and even eventually stop the growth of larger plants such as shrubs and trees.
Finally, Kearns gave some tips for how to reduce the spread of invasive plants. She urged everyone to visit the DNR’s website to learn which plants are invasive. Then, if you see those plants, you should either clear them (if it is a small patch) or at least make sure that you don’t track their seeds to spread them further. This means cleaning off boats, shoes, and other property or clothing that could’ve come in contact with these plants.
To learn more about invasive plants and other species, as well as how to stop their spread, visit the DNR’s website.
Listen to the entire show:
