SEWISC programs and projects

We strive to provide resources for on-the-ground control of invasive species and establishment of native communities in Southeastern Wisconsin. This year, SEWISC had the opportunity to assist organizations, agencies, and homeowners through programs funded by US Forest Service Great Lakes Restoration Initiative, We Energies Foundation and the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources.

Invasive species mapped, controlled and managed through these efforts include invasive buckthorns and honeysuckles, dame’s rocket, garlic mustard, multi-flora rose, oriental bittersweet, wild parsnip, cut-leaved and common teasel, reed canary grass, autumn olive, hairy willow herb, wild chervil, purple loosestrife, crown vetch, reed mana grass, Japanese knotweed, Japanese tree lilac, flowering rush, Siberian elm, yellow iris, Japanese barberry, callery pear and more!

Need a little help with your invasive species management? Check our website in mid-January for 2023 Assistance Program Funding and application details.

Back by popular demand!

Many people in southeastern Wisconsin work to control exotic invasive plants in our natural areas. During 2023, SEWISC will team with Johnson’s Nursery, Inc.TM and Natural Resources Foundation of Wisconsin to offer our Invasive Plant Management Workshops. Take this class to ensure that you are using the most appropriate, efficient, up-to-date, and least environmentally damaging methods in your control efforts.

Native plant replacements for exotic invasives

Our Educational Symposium was informative and fun! Award-winning Landscape Architect and owner of Landserve, LLC, John Mariani, discussed Native Plant Replacements for Exotic Invasives. We learned about using indigenous plants in an aesthetically pleasing yet functional design and how to highlight plants that are the best substitutes for non-natives. Learn more about John's ideas at Landscapes for Life!

Raising awareness across the nation

National Invasive Species Awareness Week (NISAW) is scheduled for February 20 – 26, 2023. Invasive species is a topic that deserves everyone’s attention. Non-native plants, animals and pathogens can harm humans and the environment and impact our nation's economy. The damage done by invasive plants alone costs the U.S. an estimated $34.7 billion a year.

Now more than ever, our lands and waters need a nationwide campaign to spread awareness about invasive species. Participate in events across the nation to raise awareness and identify solutions to invasive species issues at local, state, tribal, regional, and national scales. Locate an invasive species event in your state or county and plan your own event using the NISAW Toolkit - where and when it works for you!

Here are 9 ways you can help to raise awareness:

1. Learn about invasive species, especially those found in your region. Your county extension office and the National Invasive Species Information Center are both trusted resources.
2. Clean your hiking boots, waders, boats and trailers, off-road vehicles, and other gear to stop invasive species from hitching a ride to a new location. Learn more at PlayCleanGo.org
3. Avoid dumping aquariums or live bait into waterways. Learn more at Habitattitude.org
4. Don't move firewood - instead, buy it where you'll burn it, or gather on site when permitted. Learn more at DontMoveFirewood.org and Hungry Pests.
5. Use forage, hay, mulch and soil that are certified as "weed free."
6. Plant only non-invasive plants in your garden and remove any known invaders.
7. Report new or expanded invasive species outbreaks to authorities. Here is a state-by-state list of contacts
8. Volunteer to help remove invasive species from public lands and natural areas.
9. Ask your political representatives at the state, local and national level to support invasive species control efforts.

Though the impact of invasive species is profound, there are important steps we can take to manage infestations and prevent their spread. It all begins with awareness. To learn more about how you can participate, visit: NISAW.

The Annual Meeting of the general membership will be held at

1:30 pm on January 24, 2023.

During the meeting, we will review our 2022 Year-end Report and our plans for 2023. We will also elect the 2023 Board of Directors and Officers. Paid 2023 SEWISC members may join the meeting and vote during the Board elections. Email for more information.

All SEWISC 2023 Board meeting dates and times can also be found on the SEWISC website.

Organize a 2023 Pull-A-Thon Team

Get an early start on your seasonal garlic mustard control and raise funds for long-term control by planning to join the Southeastern Wisconsin Garlic Mustard Pull-A-Thon, an annual event where we encourage folks throughout southeastern Wisconsin to protect the natural lands of their neighborhoods by pulling this invasive plant.

The pull-a-thon is a friendly competition, a fundraiser, and a way for people to join together and have a positive impact on their environment. Our natural areas will only avoid damage from invasives with a long-term sustained commitment to invasives control. Control mustard and raise funds for your organization!

Visit our website for this year’s Pull-A-Thon results: 2022 SEWISC Pull-A-Thon.  And watch for the 2023 pre-event details in early March. If you would like to volunteer as a Team Leader and add your worksite location to our event, please email us at: .