Invasive species events & volunteering
Invasive Species Events
You can find invasive species events and other DNR-hosted events on the DNR Events calendar.
Invasive Species Action Month (ISAM)
June is Invasive Species Action Month in Wisconsin. ISAM is an initiative developed by the Wisconsin Invasive Species Council. Beginning in 2005, the Council has requested the Governor to proclaim June as ISAM and has hosted the annual Invasive Species Action Awards to award groups and individuals around the state that take action on invasives. Learn more about the Council and their efforts on their webpage.
Invasive Species Awareness Weekend (ISAW)
In 2024, the Bureau of Parks and Recreation Management piloted a statewide initiative called Invasive Species Awareness Day as part of Invasive Species Action Month in June. During this first year, 14 properties hosted 20 education programs and invasive control events across 10 counties. In 2025, increased collaboration and inclusion of partner groups allowed the program to expand into Invasive Species Awareness Weekend with 30 events across 19 counties!
ISAW aims to raise awareness of the many invasive species that threaten our natural habitats and encourage folks to learn and take action. Looking forward, the ISAW planning team is excited to begin the planning and development for 2026. Save the date for June 20 and 21, 2026!
Summary of Invasive Species Awareness Weekend 2025
Pictured above are the participants of the 2024 “Feel the Burn 5k” at the Kettle Moraine State Forest – Lapham Peak Unit. This event helps raise funds for prescribed fire in the forest. Photo Credit: Wisconsin DNR.Volunteer Opportunities
Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Snapshot Day
Join the Water Action Volunteers for their annual statewide AIS Snapshot Day! This volunteer monitoring day will be held on August 9, 2025. Registration opens on June 2 for anyone interested in getting involved.
State Natural Area Volunteer Opportunities
Have a particular State Natural Area that’s close to your heart? Consider joining or starting volunteer workdays on your favorite property! You can find upcoming workdays and more information on the State Natural Area Volunteer Program page.
State Parks Volunteer Opportunities
The Wisconsin State Parks System will celebrate 125 years in 2025. Come celebrate and make a difference in your area by becoming a volunteer. Learn more about volunteering in State Parks.
Citizen-Based Monitoring
Surveying and monitoring are key parts of invasive species management and are critical for our rare species. Learn how to get involved with monitoring efforts that interest you.
