The Lake Superior National Estuarine Research Reserve and Friends of the Reserve are hosting another spotted knapweed removal on Wisconsin Point this summer!

Spotted knapweed is a prolific non-local plant that, when widespread, can prevent native plants from growing and decrease the biodiversity of the habitat. It's particularly good at outcompeting other plants by exuding a chemical from it's roots that can prevent the growth of other plants. For more information check out the DNR's info page on the plant:

Spotted knapweed | (Centaurea biebersteinii) | Wisconsin DNR

On July 20th, community members of all ages are invited to the point to support healthy ecosystems for local, native plants. No prior experience with knapweed is required.

This event will involve physical activity like walking, crouching, kneeling, and pulling.

We will provide:

• Coffee (We'll have cups but you're encouraged to bring your own!)

• Snacks

• Extra gloves for people who don't have any

• Contractor bags

• First aid kit

• Hand wash station

You could bring:

• a refillable water bottle

• gardening/work gloves if you have them (spotted knapweed can cause some skin irritation if you have direct contact with it)

• Sunscreen

• Bugspray

• A pad to kneel on if you have one, since we are hand-pulling

Sign up on Eventbrite today to ensure yourself a spot! This event is hosted by the Lake Superior National Estuarine Research Reserve and is supported by the Friends of the Lake Superior Reserve.

Participants are encouraged to join us in attending Lake Superior Day festivities on Barker's Island the following day (Saturday, July 21)!