Beyond Tanks and Gardens: Highlighting Instances of Invasive Species in Trade
Organisms in Trade represents a significant pathway for the introduction and spread of invasive plant and animal species. During this year’s Symposium, experts from the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources Patrick Siwula, Aquatic Invasive Species Biologist, and Sam Haferkorn, Conservation Warden covered instances in which invasive species can spread through trade, including specific routes that may not be common knowledge or that may go unaddressed. Our audience learned about Wisconsin's efforts to halt this pathway and how they can help. View a recording of the presentation HERE.
Symposium attendees celebrated this year’s Sweat Equity Award Winner, Bob Housey. Nominated by Jeff Veglahn of Wehr Nature Center, Bob is an exemplary stewardship volunteer who has earned the nickname “Buckthorn Bob.” He started volunteering in 2010 with Greendale’s Environmental Club removing common buckthorn throughout the village natural areas. Bob continues his stewardship initiative over various areas of Milwaukee County Parks natural areas, including Wehr Nature Center in Whitnall Park.
Everyone enjoyed local food refreshments and five lucky raffle winners returned home with $1,411 in fantastic, donated prizes! Thank you to the generous donors of this year’s event.
Mark your calendars for our next Education Symposium: Tuesday, November 10, 2026, at Havenwoods Environmental Awareness Center in Milwaukee.
