Thursday, November 11, 2010

County Grounds: invasive teasel infests the Monarch Trail


Followers of Urban Wilderness will be familiar with the Milwaukee County Grounds from my many previous posts. Among many other virtues, it hosts the Monarch Trail, which is a uniquely valuable stop over point for the migrating butterflies. The habitat that supports this migration has been curtailed severely by the developments that have been taking place and has been reduced to a vestige. Still, this year’s migration was one of the more spectacular ones in recent years and many people visited the trail and the grounds and enjoyed the marvelous sight of massed butterflies.

Development isn’t the only threat to the habitat. Invasive species posed another serious threat. Teasel, pictured here, is especially rampant on and around the Monarch Trail. A small, dedicated group of Friends of the Monarch Trail have been pulling teasel in an effort to keep ahead of the onslaught but it is an uphill battle.


Next Wednesday horticulturist Carrie Hennessy and a crew from Johnson’s Nursery have graciously offered to remove teasel pro bono from portions of the site. They can use your help.

When: Wednesday, November 17th
Rain Date: Thursday, November 18th

Time: 9:00 am until ?

Where: Milwaukee County Parks Department
9480 Watertown Plank Road, Wauwatosa, WI 53226

Please get out and help if you can. Make sure to dress for the weather – in layers in case you get overheated. Bring sturdy gloves and a good set of loppers. Come for an hour or stay the whole day!

If you have questions, contact Carrie Hennessy at (262) 252-4988 or chennessy@johnsonsnursery.com.

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