The DNR is honoring two Plymouth residents for their individual efforts in keeping invasive species from displacing native flora in Wisconsin. The two are among 16 individuals and one group to be honored at Wisconsin’s 21st annual Invasive Species Action Awards event set for Wednesday, June 4 at the Wisconsin Cranberry Research Station in Black River Falls.
Regional Aquatic Invasive Species Coordinator, Patrick Siwula, has overseen early detection and rapid response efforts on high-profile invasive species. As an example, Siwula coordinated area associations to effectively respond to outbreaks of the Starry Stonewort, a species prohibited in Wisconsin, when the plant appeared in several inland lakes. The data gathered while fighting the plant have gone on to be used in scientific literature.
Steve Klock of Plymouth was also honored for his continuing efforts against invasives, even though he retired from the DNR 14 years ago. Klock educates local schools, youth camps, landowners, nonprofits and others on non-native species and is known as a local expert who is always willing to roll up his sleeve and lend a hand.
Both will receive a plaque and a thank-you from the Wisconsin Invasive Species Council.
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