Invasive species are non-native plants that cause damage to native ecosystems due to loss of diversity. This can be detrimental to local economies, recreation, and environmental health.
According to the WI DNR, approximately 42% of the species on the federal endangered species list or threatened endangered list are at risk primarily because of invasive species. The DNR provides A Field Guide to Invasive Plants in Wisconsin.
Common invasive plants to control:
Garlic Mustard (Alliaria petiolata)
Wild Parnsip (Pastinaca sativa)
**Warning: When Wild Parsnip comes into contact with bare skin, it can cause painful burns and blisters. Cover all exposed skin during removal.
Cattail (Typha)
Canada Thistle (Cirsium arvense)
Seaside Goldenrod (Solidago sempervirens)
Disposal:
Invasive plants should be removed and sealed in plastic bags to be sent to the landfill. Small bags can be placed in your green refuse cart and large bags can be disposed of at the Fitchburg Recycling Drop off site (2373 S. Fish Hatchery Rd) in the dumpster marked 'yardwaste bags, invasive plants and empty oil containers'.
Visit the DNR invasive species webpage for more information on identification and control at http://dnr.wi.gov/topic/Invasives/species.asp?filterBy=Terrestrial&filterVal=Y&catVal=PlantsReg#RegSelect
Additional Information:
View or print a handout of the regulated terrestrial invasive species: