Invasive Species Removals 2026
Help save some of our local wild areas from being overrun with invasive plants. Volunteers are needed to help remove them. This is a wonderful way to be outdoors, meet new people, and help the local eco-system.
Join the “Weed Warriors” in tackling Dames Rocket in the spring and Buckthorn in the fall in our wild areas. Bring work gloves and safety glasses if available. All equipment will be supplied. No dogs allowed. All sessions are from 9:00 am to 11:00 am. Canceled in the event of rain. See the RSVP notice below.
Stay tuned for the spring schedule.
For more information call 920-922-7931 or email dianahbeck@gmail.com.
Fall Buckthorn Removal. What is Buckthorn?
Buckthorn is one of the most invasive non-native plants in our local prairies, woodlands, and yards. It shades and crowds out native plants, creating a dense, dull monoculture with barren erosive soil beneath. Fall is the best time to target the plant for removal. Join the work parties to help us restore the habitat along the Peebles Trail.
Buckthorn was brought to this country from Germany in the 19th century. The small tree/shrub makes a good hedge and the berries have a laxative effect. Over the years, the berries have been spread by birds and now buckthorn can be found all over our city and county. The problem comes from a lack of natural controls such as insects that might eat it, and results in thick infestations that crowd out native species.
Dave Stetter Environmental Education Fund
Dave Stetter, a science teacher at Goodrich High School from 1967 to 2000, was a long-time member and conservation chair for Fond du Lac County Audubon Society. Dave was instrumental in developing facilities and curriculum for the Eldorado and Goodrich Nature Centers. He started an Environmental Awareness Club at Goodrich and organized the first Earth Day activities there in 1970. Dave strongly believed in hands-on outdoor education activities for youth to develop an understanding and appreciation of the natural world. He hoped that such experiences would promote life-long environmental ethics and activism. To honor the memory of Dave Stetter and to promote the conservation values he held so dear, Fond du Lac County Audubon, in conjunction with Dave’s family, has established a fund to support outdoor education experiences for youth. Fond du Lac Audubon plans to use these funds for environmental camp scholarships, field trips to established nature centers, or hands-on outdoor nature programs for youth. Those willing to contribute to the fund may send checks to Mike Sweney, Fond du Lac Audubon treasurer at N5545 Winnvue Ct., Fond du Lac, WI 54937. Make checks payable to Dave Stetter EE Fund.
The Gottfried Prairie and Arboretum
This beautiful native prairie restoration will benefit from your talents and skills. Visit their website to find out how you can make a difference.
Volunteers help to rid the prairie of alien weed species.
Audubon Board and Committees
Any interested community member is invited to attend a Board meeting to find out more about being involved; please contact Diana Beck. Our organization seeks volunteers for our Board and for Committees including marketing – Evelyn McLean-Cowan and education – Margie Winter.