Lake Winneconne

https://fwwa.org/2025/06/14/is-it-safe-to-swim-blue-green-algae-and-the-risks-to-humans-and-pets/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=is-it-safe-to-swim-blue-green-algae-and-the-risks-to-humans-and-pets

Battle on Bago & Beyond – Protect Your Waters from Invasive Species

On: February 14, 2025

In: AIS, angling, aquatic invasive species, battle on bago, fishing, Fox-Wolf Basin, Fox-Wolf Watershed Alliance, habitat, ice fishing, invasive species, Lake Butte des Morts, Lake Poygan, Lake Winnebago, Lake Winneconne, Outreach and Education, Recreation, Winnebago, Winnebago Lakes, Winnebago Waterways

No Matter the Time of Year, AIS Prevention Helps Your Waters Original Story: WI DNR The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and partners ask anglers to help prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species while fishing this winter. Even in harsh winter conditions, anglers can help prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species [...]

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Water Hyacinth Instead of Plastic Bags? Invasive Species Used to Regrow Forests

On: January 17, 2025

In: 2025, AIS, aquatic invasive species, Fox-Wolf Watershed Alliance, FWWA, habitat, invasive, invasvie species, Lake Winneconne, Outreach and Education, water hyacinth, Winnebago Waterways

Startup Company Finding Ways to Deal with Invasive Plant Original Story: Tom Page, CNN Lake Naivasha, northwest of Nairobi, Kenya is becoming increasingly unnavigable. Water hyacinth, the world’s most widespread invasive species, is blanketing the lake, choking its fish and leaving people stranded. “Sometimes it becomes very serious,” says Simon Macharia, a local fisherman, [...]

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Water Hyacinth No More! Invasive Species Removal Success

On: September 26, 2024

In: 2024, AIS, aquatic invasive species, Butte des Morts, Fox-Wolf Watershed Alliance, FWWA, habitat, invasive species, Lake Poygan, Lake Winnebago, Lake Winneconne, volunteer, water hyacinth, watershed recovery, WDNR, WI DNR, Winnebago Lakes, Winnebago Waterways

Multi-Year Partnership Results in Water Hyacinth No Longer Seen on Lake Winneconne

A team from the Fox-Wolf Watershed Alliance and the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources recently monitored Lake Winneconne for the invasive species Water Hyacinth. The annual check for this invasive plant has been ongoing since October 2015 when water hyacinth was first found in the Winnebago System. After an extensive search, no hyacinth was found for the 5th consecutive year! According to the DNR, water hyacinth will no longer be listed as verified or observed on the System. While it’s very difficult to remove any invasive species completely from a lake or river, that has effectively been done for the Winnebago System with water hyacinth!

Water hyacinth has previously been found in local waterways in 8 Wisconsin counties, including in Lake Winneconne in Winnebago County. The plant was first reported to the DNR in October 2015 by a citizen volunteer. Due to its ability to quickly dominate a system, there is concern that the plant may be able to establish a population in the lake. With local partners, the DNR coordinated efforts in October and early November 2015 to remove all water hyacinth plants that were found. As a sub-tropical plant, there was hope that the cold Wisconsin winter would eliminate any plants that were potentially missed by the removal efforts. However, in September 2016, more water hyacinth plants were located in the same area of Lake Winneconne in residential channels and the Wolf River channel. Additional monitoring and removal occurred in September and October 2016, September and October 2017, July and October 2018, and September 2019.

Starting in 2020, no water hyacinth was found during the monitoring trips or by volunteer monitoring efforts. With each successive year, more support was given to the idea that the plant was being repetitively illegally released into the lake near the end of the growing season rather than fragments of plant surviving or seeds germinating each year.

Only with partnerships between WI DNR, local non-profits like Fox-Wolf Watershed Alliance, citizen volunteers is this story a success. From the first plant being found and reported by a concerned lake resident to the response and removal efforts, we at Fox-Wolf are proud to be part of the team that ensured our System remains free of waterd hyacinth!

Photo Credit: Chris Acy, Patrick Siwula

Questions? Comments? Contact Chris Acy, the AIS Coordinator covering Brown, Outagamie, Fond du Lac, Calumet, and Winnebago Counties at (920) 460-3674 or chris@fwwa.org!

Follow the Fox Wolf Watershed Alliance on our Fox-Wolf Watershed Alliance Facebook page or @fox_wolf_watershed_alliance on Instagram! You can also sign-up for email updates at fwwa.org.

The Fox-Wolf Watershed Alliance is an independent nonprofit organization that identifies and advocates effective policies and actions that protect, restore, and sustain water resources in the Fox-Wolf River Basin.

Reporting invasive species is a first step in containing their spread. Maintaining and restoring our waters and landscapes can reduce the impacts even when we don’t have other management options to an invasive species.

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Stormwater Week 2024 | NEWSC

On: September 23, 2024

In: 2024, Fox-Wolf Watershed Alliance, FWWA, Lake Poygan, Lake Winnebago, Lake Winneconne, NEWSC, stormwater, stormwater pollution, Urban Stormwater, Winnebago Lakes, Winnebago Waterways

Protecting Northeast Wisconsin’s Waterways: Stormwater Management with NEWSC

At the Fox-Wolf Watershed Alliance, we’re excited to highlight the great work being done by the Northeast Wisconsin Stormwater Consortium (NEWSC). NEWSC is dedicated to stormwater management and reducing pollution in our local rivers, lakes, and streams, like the Fox River and Lake Winnebago. By working with municipalities, businesses, and the public, they play a big part in keeping our waterways clean and healthy across Northeast Wisconsin.

Northeast Wisconsin Stormwater Consortium (NEWSC) is all about keeping local waterways clean and healthy by managing stormwater runoff. They work with municipalities, businesses, and the public to help reduce pollution that can end up in rivers, lakes, and streams.

Here’s What They Do:

Education & Outreach: NEWSC runs programs to help people understand how stormwater impacts the environment and what we can all do to help. This includes public campaigns, workshops, and simple tips for homeowners and businesses.
Technical Support: They help cities and towns with stormwater plans to make sure they’re following the rules and doing what’s best for the environment.
Collaboration: NEWSC brings different groups together to share knowledge and work on stormwater issues as a team.

Here’s Who they serve:

Municipalities that need to manage stormwater runoff according to regulations.
Businesses that want to be more environmentally friendly.
Homeowners and the public who can help by taking small steps like using rain barrels or reducing chemical use in yards.
Schools where students can learn about stormwater and how to protect water quality.
Municipalities, including cities like Green Bay, Oshkosh, and Appleton, that need to manage stormwater runoff according to state and federal regulations.

By working together as a region, NEWSC is able to take on stormwater challenges in a more impactful way. Protecting water quality helps reduce flooding, keeps pollutants out of our waterways, and preserves the natural environment in Northeast Wisconsin. Whether it’s cities, businesses, schools, or individual homeowners, everyone has a part to play in keeping our waters clean and healthy for future generations!

NEWSC’s efforts make a big difference in protecting our water resources and reducing the impact of stormwater runoff. By working together, we can all do our part to keep our waterways clean and healthy for future generations. Whether you’re a city, business, or homeowner, there are simple steps everyone can take to help protect water quality in Northeast Wisconsin!

Follow the Fox Wolf Watershed Alliance on our Fox-Wolf Watershed Alliance Facebook page or @fox_wolf_watershed_alliance on Instagram! You can also sign-up for email updates at fwwa.org.

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Dan Beckwith

Surely a Sea Lamprey….right?

On: July 17, 2024

In: 2024, AIS, aquatic invasive species, Butte des Morts, chestnut lamprey, Fox-Wolf Basin, Fox-Wolf Watershed Alliance, FWWA, habitat, invasive species, Lake Butte des Morts, Lake Poygan, Lake Winnebago, Lake Winneconne, lamprey, Outreach, Outreach and Education, sea lamprey, watershed, Winnebago, Winnebago Lakes, Winnebago Waterways

Double Check Those Lamprey; Wisconsin has Native Lamprey Too

Many Wisconsin anglers are catching fish left, right, and center as we near mid-summer. But sometimes with those fish, there are reports of sea lamprey attached to fish. Even in places where the sea lamprey isn’t known to have reached, including Lake Winnebago. But anglers are often surprised to hear that Wisconsin waters play host to native lamprey. Take a minute to learn how to identify our native lamprey so next time you catch a fish with a lamprey, you’ll know if it’s native or invasive.

Native Lamprey vs. Sea Lamprey

There are four native freshwater lamprey that can be found in Wisconsin. Of these four, two are parasitic and might be on your next fish. Each species of lamprey have different physical characteristics that can help you figure the lamprey you’re seeing. Check out the chart below to see how our native species differ from the invasive sea lamprey.

Click the image to enlarge

If you’re looking for key characteristics to determine if you’ve caught a sea lamprey, take a look at the top fin of the lamprey. If the long fin on the back of the lamprey is split into two (two dorsal fins), there’s a good chance you’ve caught a sea lamprey.

The most common lamprey in the Winnbeago lake system is the native Chestnut Lamprey. To learn more about this native lamprey, check out this Fox-Wolf Species Spotlight article.

To learn more about the invasive sea lamprey, Fox-Wolf’s AIS Spotlight has the info you’ll need!

Photo Credit: Great Lakes Fishery Commission

Questions? Comments? Contact Chris Acy, the AIS Coordinator covering Brown, Outagamie, Fond du Lac, Calumet, and Winnebago Counties at (920) 460-3674 or chris@fwwa.org!

Follow the Fox Wolf Watershed Alliance’s Winnebago Waterways Program on our Winnebago Waterways Facebook page or @WinnWaterways on Twitter! You can also sign-up for email updates at WinnebagoWaterways.org.

Winnebago Waterways is a Fox-Wolf Watershed Alliance program. The Fox-Wolf Watershed Alliance is an independent nonprofit organization that identifies and advocates effective policies and actions that protect, restore, and sustain water resources in the Fox-Wolf River Basin.

Check out the Keepers of the Fox Program at https://fwwa.org/watershed-recovery/lower-fox-recovery/

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Menasha Lock Re-Opening Plans Put On Hold Indefinitely

On: July 2, 2024

In: 2024, AIS, aquatic invasive species, Boating, Butte des Morts, Fox River Navigational System Authority, invasive, Lake Butte des Morts, Lake Poygan, Lake Winnebago, Lake Winneconne, little lake butte des morts, menasha lock, Outreach, round goby, watershed, WDNR, Winnebago, Winnebago Lakes, Winnebago Waterways

Cost for Electric Fish Barrier Significant, Board Votes to Stop Project

Original Story: Fox River Navigation System Authority

The Fox River Navigational System Authority (FRNSA) board voted in late June to halt work on the Menasha lock re-opening project, with no set date for resuming development of an electric barrier in the lock channel.

The Menasha lock (located between Lake Winnebago and Little Lake Butte des Morts) had been the most-used lock in the system between Lake Winnebago and Green Bay. After the discovery of a round goby below the Neenah dam in 2015, FRNSA voluntarily closed the lock in an effort to keep the invasive fish out of Lake Winnebago. Since then, the round goby has become abundant in the Fox River and Little Lake Butte des Morts.

The FRNSA has spent more than $750,000 on a proposed electronic barrier which would have allowed boats to pass through the lock, but emit a DC current to repulse fish from entering the lock channel.

However, with an installation cost of $7 million, plus an annual operating cost of $300,000-$400,000, the FRNSA board voted to stop work on the project. Since 2015, FRNSA has been working with experts in aquatic ecosystem management to design a plan using a system of an electric deterrent barrier and water flow regulation at the Menasha lock. Board members indicated further work on the proposal was not within the organization’s budget.

Prior to closing the Menasha lock, it had been the busiest lock on the system; now the DePere lock is the busiest. The locks are the only way the Fox River is navigable—from Menasha to the Bay of Green Bay the river drops in elevation 168 feet. From the Menasha lock to the Rapide Croche lock the river has 17 miles of navigable water. On the northern end of the river from Rapide Croche to the Bay of Green Bay the river is navigable for 20 miles.

“Our goal has always been to restore navigation of the Fox River through the lock system, but we also want to ensure we are protecting the waterways,” Ramlet said. He added FRNSA has maintained a testing program for invasive species for years.

Photo Credit: FRNSA

Questions? Comments? Contact Chris Acy, the AIS Coordinator covering Brown, Outagamie, Fond du Lac, Calumet, and Winnebago Counties at (920) 460-3674 or chris@fwwa.org!

Check out the Keepers of the Fox Program at https://fwwa.org/watershed-recovery/lower-fox-recovery/

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Landing Blitz: Protecting our Waters

On: July 2, 2024

In: 2024, AIS, aquatic invasive species, Bay of Green Bay, Butte des Morts, Clean Boats Clean Waters, Fond du Lac, Fox-Wolf Basin, Fox-Wolf Watershed Alliance, FWWA, Great Lakes, Green Bay, invasive species, Lake Butte des Morts, Lake Poygan, Lake Winnebago, Lake Winneconne, Lower Fox River, Outreach, Outreach and Education, Upper Fox River, watershed, WDNR, WI DNR, Winnebago Waterways

4th of July and Aquatic Invasive Species

Happy 4th of July!

The Fox-Wolf Watershed Alliance is joining the international effort to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species this July 4^th weekend! The annual Landing Blitz campaign runs June 26th – July 6th, 2024. Clean Boats, Clean Waters (CBCW) boat inspectors and educators will meet boaters at lake and river launches to remind them that by taking simple prevention steps, we all play a vital role stopping the spread of aquatic invasive species (AIS) like zebra mussels.

Joining with the Great Lakes Landing Blitz, Fox-Wolf Watershed Alliance joins all the Great Lakes states and provinces to educate boaters that simple clean up steps and draining water from the boat and live wells can help to prevent the spread of AIS. Many boaters will be greeted at landings and access points by volunteers and regional aquatic invasive species prevention partners sharing the simple but powerful message: YOU can protect lakes and rivers form aquatic invasive species impacts.

“It only takes a minute to remove plants, animals, mud or debris from boats, trailers and equipment and to drain all water from bilges, livewells and bait buckets,” said Erin McFarlane, the Statewide CBCW Educator with Extension Lakes. “These simple steps help keep invasive species from hitching a ride from one lake or river to another.”

No matter where you launch, always remember before you leave the launch to:

Inspect boats, trailers and equipment for attached aquatic plants or animals.
Remove all attached plants or animals
Drain all water from boats, motors, livewells and other equipment
Never move live fish away from a waterbody (out of water = dead)
Dispose of unwanted bait in the trash
Buy minnows from a Wisconsin bait dealer
Only use leftover minnows when either 1) fishing with them on the same body of water or 2) on other waters if no lake/river water or other fish have been added to the container.

Following these steps ensures boaters comply with Wisconsin state law, which prohibits the transport of aquatic invasive species.

Have a safe holiday weekend and thanks for helping protect our waterways!

Photo Credit: Sophia Koch

Questions? Comments? Contact Chris Acy, the AIS Coordinator covering Brown, Outagamie, Fond du Lac, Calumet, and Winnebago Counties at (920) 460-3674 or chris@fwwa.org!

Check out the Keepers of the Fox Program at https://fwwa.org/watershed-recovery/lower-fox-recovery/

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Exotic Pet Surrender in Kimberly Gives Pet Owners Options

On: May 20, 2024

In: 2024, AIS, aquatic invasive species, Event - Non-FWWA, exotic pet surrender, Fox-Wolf Watershed Alliance, FWWA, Green Bay, habitat, Habitattitude, Lake Butte des Morts, Lake Poygan, Lake Winnebago, Lake Winneconne, Outreach and Education, PET, pets, rehoming, Winnebago Lakes, Winnebago Waterways

Over 70 Exotic Pets Surrendered, To Be Rehomed

Seventy animals were turned in at an exotic pet surrender event in Kimberly, Wisconsin, on Sunday. Thirty seven people attended and there was a Facebook Reach of 13,000 people. Included in the surrenders were a four parakeets, a ferret, three red eared sliders, and a 13 foot reticulated python!

The Exotic Pet Surrender Event was held March 18th, 2024 between 9 AM and 1 PM at the Kimberly Public Library. J&R Aquatic Animal Rescue was accepting fish, invertebrates, reptiles, pet birds, small mammals, and plants — no questions asked.

In some areas, there are no rehoming options for exotic animals such as fish, birds, and reptiles. Some pet owners that are unable to care for their pet may think that releasing the animal is the right thing to do, however, releasing a pet is harmful for the animal and the environment.

This event brought together a collection of rehoming partners that provide responsible alternatives to release for exotic pet owners who are no longer able to care for their pets. J&R Aquatic Animal Rescue (JRAAR) hosted the event with help from another area organization; the Fox-Wolf Watershed Alliance.

Questions regarding the Exotic Pet Surrender Event or about future surrenders or events can be directed to John Moyles of J&R Aquatic Animal Rescue. He can be reached at adoptions@jraar.org

For information on future pet surrender events happening across the state of Wisconsin, visit https://www.jraar.org/

Photo Credit: Chris Acy, J&R Aquatic Animal Rescue

Questions? Comments? Contact Chris Acy, the AIS Coordinator covering Brown, Outagamie, Fond du Lac, Calumet, and Winnebago Counties at (920) 460-3674 or chris@fwwa.org!

Check out the Keepers of the Fox Program at https://fwwa.org/watershed-recovery/lower-fox-recovery/

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Adopt a Launch Program Flourishes Early in 2024

On: May 1, 2024

In: 2024, Adopt, Adopt-a-Launch, AIS, aquatic invasive species, fox river, Fox-Wolf Watershed Alliance, Green Bay, invasive species, Lake Butte des Morts, Lake Poygan, Lake Winnebago, Lake Winneconne, Outreach and Education, volunteer, volunteer opportunity, Volunteer Spotlight, Winnebago Lakes, Winnebago Waterways

April Ends with Four Additional Launches Adopted

The Fox-Wolf Watershed Alliance’s Adopt a Launch Program is off to its fastest start in years! As we end the month of April, we have had four new launches be adopted across the watershed.

Fred Miller Park Boat Launch, City of Omro – Girl Scout Troop 2147
Telulah Park Kayak Launch, City of Appleton – Valley New School
Lutz Park Boat Launch, City of Appleton – Fox River Academy
1000 Islands Kayak Launch, City of Kaukauna – Julie Eddy & Linda Olson

With several more launch adoptions underway, 2024 is shaping to be one of the largest increases in boat launches adopted in the Program’s history. The Fox-Wolf Adopt-a-Launch Program works to improve and clean up the lakes and rivers by engaging community members through volunteer efforts at boat launches. Volunteers are helping to identify new introductions of aquatic invasive species (AIS), prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species by removing plant and debris at launch sites, improve and protect habitat and water quality by removing garbage, help ensure recreational boating facilities are maintained by reporting issues, and develop a sense of pride and ownership for the waterways. Want to get involved? Here’s how to join our amazing volunteers!

Photo Credit: Chris Acy

Questions? Comments? Contact Chris Acy, the AIS Coordinator covering Brown, Outagamie, Fond du Lac, Calumet, and Winnebago Counties at (920) 460-3674 or chris@fwwa.org!

Check out the Keepers of the Fox Program at https://fwwa.org/watershed-recovery/lower-fox-recovery/

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Update: 2022 Spiny Waterflea Findings in Lake Winnebago

On: April 24, 2024

In: 2024, AIS, angling, aquatic invasive species, Boating, conservation, fishing, Fox-Wolf Watershed Alliance, FWWA, invasive, invasive species, Lake Butte des Morts, Lake Poygan, Lake Winnebago, Lake Winneconne, Spiny Waterflea, waterflea, Winnebago, Winnebago Lakes, Winnebago Waterways

Additional Monitoring Reveals No Other Spiny Waterfleas

Following up from a spiny water flea finding in Lake Winnebago in 2022, the WI Department of Natural Resources and local partners conducted extensive monitoring for spiny water fleas through the summer and fall of 2022. Biologists were searching for additional adult spiny waterfleas as well as eggs that would have been laid in the sediment of the lake. Following analysis of the samples collected, we are please to report that no evidence of spiny waterflea were found which includes not finding any eggs!

This is fantastic news for our waterways! Currently, there is no evidence that the spiny waterfleas found in 2022 were able to establish a population in Lake Winnebago. Ongoing monitoring by UW-Green Bay as part of the Fox River Navigational System Authority (FRNSA) AIS Monitoring Program will continue to keep an eye out for spiny waterflea and other invasive species.

Remember- an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. It’s easy to help prevent the spread of all aquatic invasive species between lakes. No matter what lake or river you visit, follow these steps to protect your wild places:

Spiny waterflea on a fingertip

· Inspect equipment (boats, fishing line, etc.) for attached aquatic plant, animals, or mud

· Remove all attached plants or animals

· Drain all water from buckets and containers

· Never move live fish away from a waterbody (fish out of water = dead)

Photo Credit: Riley Schultz (UWGB), WI Sea Grant, Donn Brandstrator (UM-Duluth), Chris Acy

Questions? Comments? Contact Chris Acy, the AIS Coordinator covering Brown, Outagamie, Fond du Lac, Calumet, and Winnebago Counties at (920) 460-3674 or chris@fwwa.org!

Check out the Keepers of the Fox Program at https://fwwa.org/watershed-recovery/lower-fox-recovery/

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Warming Weather? Help Volunteer to Protect Your Favorite Places

On: March 13, 2024

In: 2024, Adopt-a-Launch, AIS, aquatic invasive species, Bay of Green Bay, Butte des Morts, Citizen Lake Monitoring Network, Clean Boats Clean Waters, conservation, Fox-Wolf Watershed Alliance, FWWA, invasive species, Lake Butte des Morts, Lake Poygan, Lake Winnebago, Lake Winneconne, Project RED, volunteer, volunteer opportunity, watershed

Opportunities Abound; Volunteer While Doing What You Love!

The warmer weather and open water is calling! When you’re out doing your favorite activities this spring and summer, you could be helping protect your lakes and rivers! Learn about some of the volunteer opportunities at Fox-Wolf below. Our volunteer opportunities give you the flexibility to do what you love while protecting your waters!

Adopt-a-Launch

Join community members in helping improve boat launches ! Interested individuals will adopt a local boat launch and help remove plants from the launch area, pick up litter, and report issues with the launch. Volunteers also help protect our lakes by searching for aquatic invasive species at their launch! Adopt-a-Launch program is a Fox-Wolf program that works to engage community members in taking ownership of their lakes by helping to search for aquatic invasive species and improve boat launches! Get involved today!

Project Riverine Early Detectors

Love to paddle, kayak, or canoe in rivers and streams? Help look for invasive species during this relaxing pastime! You will be trained on how to easily identify aquatic invasive species, some native look-a-likes, and how you can keep an eye out for them when you’re floating just around the riverbend!

Citizen Lake Monitoring Network

Join 1000+citizen volunteers statewide to collect high quality data on the lakes that you love! CLMN volunteers help monitor their lakes for a variety of things including water quality parameters, ice on/off, and aquatic invasive species! Volunteers help determine which topics they are interested in monitoring. The information gathered by volunteers is even used by Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources and university biologists and researchers, UW-Extension, and other interested individuals in projects that work to improve your lake! Help keep track of changes in your lake while being near your favorite Winnebago lake! This opportunity is easy to do from both the shoreline as well as your boat!

Purple loosestrife Biocontrol

Love to garden! This one’s for you! Help control harmful invasive species in our community! The invasive plant Purple loosestrife can quickly dominate a wetland and harm our native plants. You can help by raising a natural predator of Purple loosestrife (Galerucella beetles) on caged, potted, loosestrife plants in your backyard. Once released into local infested wetlands, the beetles only eat purple loosestrife, giving native plants a chance to re-establish. This DNR program, locally coordinated by Fox-Wolf Watershed Alliance, offers free supplies and does not require previous experience. Access to an outdoor space within reach of a garden hose is ideal, but we are also looking for volunteers to help with plant potting and beetle release events.

Clean Boats, Clean Waters

Love talking with people? Get involved in the effort to protect Wisconsin lakes and rivers by stopping the spread of aquatic invasive species. As a volunteer watercraft inspector, you will take up the front line by conducting boater education at boat landings in your community. Inspectors perform boat and trailer checks for aquatic invasive species, educate boaters on how to stop the spread, and collect and report new infestations. Meet other anglers and boaters from across the Midwest!

AIS Statewide Snapshot Day

Want a single day event that’s fun for the whole family? During the statewide Aquatic Invasive Species Snapshot Day, join other water quality enthusiasts in searching for invasive species that harm our waterways. Learn how to search for invasive species that may affect the waters that are special to you. You can choose to search from the shore with binoculars and a rake or wade into friendly waters to get a better look! This event is fun for the whole family and really makes a difference in the fight against invasive species. AIS Snapshot Day occurs on August 10th, 2024.

How To Get Started

Give the greatest gift this year to your waters; your time! Whether you want a single day opportunity or want to help out throughout the summer, we will help you fuel your environmental passions at Fox-Wolf! View more of Fox-Wolf’s volunteer opportunities by visiting: https://fwwa.org/join-us/volunteer-with-fwwa/

Interested? Contact – Chris Acy, Fox-Wolf Watershed Alliance AIS Coordinator. chris@fwwa.org. (920) 460-3674

Photo Credit: Dan O’Connell, Chris Acy

Questions? Comments? Contact Chris Acy, the AIS Coordinator covering Brown, Outagamie, Fond du Lac, Calumet, and Winnebago Counties at (920) 460-3674 or chris@fwwa.org!

Check out the Keepers of the Fox Program at https://fwwa.org/watershed-recovery/lower-fox-recovery/

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400+ Exotic Pets Rehomed, Mitigating Potential Releases Into Waterways

On: March 13, 2024

In: 2024, AIS, aquatic invasive species, Event - Non-FWWA, exotic pet surrender, Fox-Wolf Watershed Alliance, FWWA, Habitattitude, invasive species, Lake Butte des Morts, Lake Poygan, Lake Winnebago, Lake Winneconne, Outreach and Education, Winnebago Lakes

Oshkosh, Neenah Play Host Exotic Pet Surrender Events

Original Story: John Moyles, J&R Aquatic Animal Rescue

In an effort to address the challenges of rehoming exotic pets and discourage the harmful practice of releasing them into the wild, J&R Aquatic Animal Rescue hosted several successful Exotic Pet Surrender Events on January 13th and March 2nd, 2024. The event, held at the organization’s rescue center in Neenah, aimed to provide responsible alternatives and a judgement-free environment for pet owners who can no longer care for their exotic animals.

A staggering 460 animals, ranging from fish and reptiles to pet birds and small mammals, found their way to new beginnings through the event. Among the surrendered animals were fish, lizards, snakes, and even a colony of roaches, highlighting the diverse range of creatures in need of assistance.

The event was not only about surrendering pets but also about education and advocacy. Attendees had the opportunity to meet Animal Ambassadors and learn about their unique stories, reinforcing the message of responsible pet ownership. A photobooth with rescued pets allowed for cherished memories to be captured and shared, further fostering a sense of community and compassion.

Collaborating with regional rehoming partners such as Reptile Rescue of Wisconsin, Fox-Wolf Watershed Alliance, Pet Advocacy Network, and University of Wisconsin Sea Grant/Water Resources Institutes, J&R Aquatic Animal Rescue facilitated the surrender of four animals, including fish, a tortoise, and birds. This collaborative effort ensures that these animals are given proper care and attention.

All surrendered pets undergo a brief quarantine and evaluation period to ensure their health and well-being before becoming available for adoption. This meticulous process reflects the commitment of the organizers to find suitable homes for these animals and prevent any negative impact on the local ecosystem.

For those who missed the event, J&R Aquatic Animal Rescue reminds the public that they can surrender pets at their Rescue Center in Neenah or find information about upcoming Surrender Events on their website: https://www.jraar.org/exoticpetsurrenderevents. With 29 events planned for the year there are ample opportunities for pet owners to seek assistance in rehoming their animals.

The success of the Exotic Pet Surrender Event was made possible through the generous sponsorship of Ship Your Reptiles, Chemipure, Jellyfish Art, Reef Aquaria Design, and Festival Foods. Their support enables J&R Aquatic Animal Rescue to continue providing valuable services to the community and promoting responsible exotic pet ownership.

Questions? Comments? Contact Chris Acy, the AIS Coordinator covering Brown, Outagamie, Fond du Lac, Calumet, and Winnebago Counties at (920) 460-3674 or chris@fwwa.org!

Follow the Fox Wolf Watershed Alliance’s Winnebago Waterways Program on our Winnebago Waterways Facebook page or @WinnWaterways on X! You can also sign-up for email updates at WinnebagoWaterways.org.

Check out the Keepers of the Fox Program at https://fwwa.org/watershed-recovery/lower-fox-recovery/

Winnebago Waterways and Keepers of the Fox are Fox-Wolf Watershed Alliance programs. The Fox-Wolf Watershed Alliance is an independent nonprofit organization working to protect and restore water resources in the Fox-Wolf River Basin.

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Invasive Plants in Your Yard? Here’s What To Do

On: January 16, 2024

In: 2024, AIS, aquatic invasive, aquatic invasive species, Butte des Morts, Fond du Lac, Fox-Wolf Watershed Alliance, FWWA, invasive species, Keepers of the Fox, Lake Butte des Morts, Lake Poygan, Lake Winnebago, Lake Winneconne, Lower Fox River, Outreach, Outreach and Education, water garden, water gardeners, watershed, Winnebago Waterways

Creating Landscapes Free of Invasive Plants Webinar; January 31st 2024 6:30 PM

Attention Master Gardeners, Master Naturalists, Garden Club Members and others advising home gardeners; this webinar is for you! Representatives from UWEX and DNR will join Melinda Myers to talk about current threats, available resources and ways we can all work together to manage invasive plants. To register for the free webinar, click the button below!

Melinda Myers is the author of numerous gardening books, including The Garden Book for Wisconsin, Small Space Gardening and The Midwest Gardeners Handbook. She hosts the “How to Grow Anything” DVD series and the Melinda’s Garden Moment TV & radio program. Myers is a columnist and contributing editor for Birds & Blooms magazine. She offers free gardening webinars on her website at www.MelindaMyers.com.

Questions? Comments? Contact Chris Acy, the AIS Coordinator covering Brown, Outagamie, Fond du Lac, Calumet, and Winnebago Counties at (920) 460-3674 or chris@fwwa.org!

Check out the Keepers of the Fox Program at https://fwwa.org/watershed-recovery/lower-fox-recovery/

The post Invasive Plants in Your Yard? Here’s What To Do appeared first on Fox-Wolf Watershed Alliance.

https://fwwa.org/2024/01/16/invasive-plants-in-your-yard-heres-what-to-do/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=invasive-plants-in-your-yard-heres-what-to-do

Sources:
Wisconsin Pollinators – Plant Details – Great Blue Lobelia
USDA Plants – Great Blue Lobelia
Wisconsin Herbarium – Great Blue Lobelia
North Carolina Extension Gardener – Plant Toolbox – Lobelia siphilitica

Species Spotlight: Great Blue Lobelia

On: October 27, 2023

In: aquatic, Butte des Morts, ecosystem, Fox-Wolf Basin, Fox-Wolf Watershed Alliance, fresh water, habitat, hummingbirds, katie reed, Lake, Lake Winneconne, lakes, lamprey, native plant, Outreach and Education, plant, pollinator, pollinator habitat, Poygan, shoreline, shoreline erosion, species, species spotlight, Water quality, Winnebago, Winnebago Waterways

The species spotlighted this month is Great Blue Lobelia (Lobelia siphilitica)! Also known as Blue Cardinal Flower, Great Blue Lobelia is a perennial wildflower native to Wisconsin that grows well along streams, springs, swamps, meadows and other places with sufficient moisture. This species grows up to 4 feet tall, with a leafy stalk on which blue/purple tubular flowers bloom in July – October. Great Blue Lobelia requires moist to wet soil and partial to full sun, and is resistant to deer browsing. This plant has a wide distribution in North America, found in wet ground from Main to Colorado and into Canada, and south to North Carolina and Texas.

The seedlings of Great Blue Lobelia are very tiny at first, before growing into the clump forming wildflower. This plant usually blooms in its first year. Seeds in October – November and in optimal conditions, this plant may self-seed, but is not overly prolific. It is not very drought tolerant, and requires moist soil.

Great Blue Lobelia is a great plant for shoreline plantings. Along with other native species, its roots are great for capturing and slowing down stormwater runoff, and for holding on to soil which helps prevent erosion. In addition, Great Blue Lobelia attacks hummingbirds and native bee species!

Lobelia_siphilitica_Aaron_Carlson_Online-Virtual-Flora-of-Wisconsin.-2023.

Image Credit: Aaron Carlson; www.wisflora.herbarium.wisc.edu; CC BY-SA 3.0

H. Zell; CC BY-SA 3.0

Article written by Katie Reed, Winnebago Waterways Coordinator: katherine@fwwa.org
Featured Image Credit: SB Johnny; CC BY-SA 3.0 Unported
Additional Image Credit 1: Aaron Carlson, wisflora.herbarium.wisc.edu; CC BY-SA 3.0
Additional Image Credit 2: H.Zell, NC Extension Gardner Plant Toolbox; CC BY-SA 3.0

Winnebago Waterways is a Fox-Wolf Watershed Alliance recovery initiative. Contact us at wwinfo@fwwa.org

The post Species Spotlight: Great Blue Lobelia appeared first on Fox-Wolf Watershed Alliance.

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Katie Reed

Species Spotlight: Chestnut Lamprey

On: August 25, 2023

In: aquatic, Butte des Morts, chestnut lamprey, ecosystem, eel, Fox-Wolf Basin, Fox-Wolf Watershed Alliance, fresh water, habitat, katie reed, Lake, Lake Winneconne, lakes, lamprey, Outreach and Education, Poygan, sea lamprey, species, species spotlight, Water quality, Winnebago, Winnebago Waterways

This month’s species spotlight shines light on a native lamprey species of the Winnebago System: Chestnut Lampreys (Ichthyomyzon castaneus). There are other native species of lamprey in the Winnebago System too. These are the Silver, American Brook, and Northern Brook lampreys. Chestnut and silver lampreys are parasitic as adults, feeding on fish. However, this usually does not kill the fish. Despite the scary looking sucker disks, native lampreys are an important part of the ecosystem.

Chesnut Lamprey (young) Photo Source: Cal Yonce/USFWS

However, there is a non-native lamprey species to be aware of too: the sea lamprey. The sea lamprey is an aquatic invasive species has not invaded the Winnebago System, but is present in the Great Lakes. If the sea lamprey were to invade the Winnebago System, it is likely they would cause major issues for the ecosystem. We must work hard to keep this aquatic invasive species out of the Winnebago System. Though a bit creepy looking, the chestnut lamprey (and Silver, American Brook, and Northern Brook lampreys) are native to this region.

Chestnut lampreys are parasitic as adults but not as larvae. The adult chestnut lamprey attaches to a fish, then scrapes a hole in the body and sucks out blood and tissue fluids for nutrients. After feeding on a fish for several days, the lamprey drops off. Usually, the fish is not killed directly by the attack, but may die due to infections from the wound.

Chestnut lampreys have a skeleton made of cartilage with no true vertebrae. They technically do not have a jaw. This makes lampreys different from eels, which have a bony skeleton and jaws. Lamprey bodies are long and cylindrical. Chestnut lamprey adults range in length from 5-11 inches. The mouth of adult chestnut lampreys is as wide or wider than the head, and contains sharp teeth that each have two points (bicuspid). Along their back, chestnut lampreys have one continuous fin. Adults are usually dark brown, gray, or olive-green on the top, with a lighter coloration of yellow or tan on the stomach. During spawning, they can appear blue-black. Younger lampreys tend to be lighter in color.

The native range of the chestnut lamprey is as far north as the Hudson Bay in Canada and as far South as the Gulf of Mexico. The Mississippi and Missouri River networks help with this large range, as the lampreys move with their host fishes.

Invasive_Sea_Lamprey_and_Native_Chestnut_Lamprey_USFWS-opt

Chestnut Lamprey (bottom; native) vs. Sea Lamprey (top; non-native; NOT found in Lake Winnebago)

Photo Source: Bobbie Halchishak/USFWS

Chestnut lampreys spawn in late spring when the water temperature is about 50ۧ°F. Chestnut lampreys stay in the larval phase for 3 – 7 years. Chestnut lamprey larva do not have eyes. When they hatch, chestnut lampreys move downstream and bury themselves at the bottom of the water body they’re living in. For the next few years, they filter feed on tiny algae particles and tiny organisms before beginning to develop their sucking disk. This disk develops teeth which allows for parasitic feeding. Once Chestnut Lampreys are adults, they can suck blood and other nutrients from host fish. Chestnut lampreys can feed on many different fish species including carp, trout, pike, sturgeon, catfish, sunfish, and paddlefish. They live another one to two years as adults, for a total lifespan of about 6 – 9 years.

Chestnut lampreys are primarily nocturnal, meaning they are most active at night. This is often why we don’t see them unless they are attached to fish we catch! During the day, they rest under rocks and along river banks. Adult chestnut lampreys are not known to have predators, but the larval lampreys are preyed upon by burbot and brown trout.

Though we tend to think of parasites as “bad”, they play an important role in the ecosystem including helping to remove weaker fish from the population. The lamprey population may become large when they have plenty of fish to feed on, but then decrease as host populations decrease. This cycle is normal in the ecosystem. Aquatic invasive species like the sea lamprey are a cause for concern because they interfere with normal population dynamics.

Article written by Katie Reed, Winnebago Waterways Coordinator: katherine@fwwa.org
Featured Image Credit: Great Lakes Fisheries Commission
Additional Image Credit 1: Cal Yonce/USFWS
Additional Image Credit 2: Bobbie Halchishak/USFWS

Sources:
Lampreys of the Great Lakes – Great Lakes Fishery Commission
Chestnut Lamprey – Illinois DNR
Ichthyomyzon castaneus – Chestnut lamprey – Animal Diversity Web

Winnebago Waterways is a Fox-Wolf Watershed Alliance recovery initiative. Contact us at wwinfo@fwwa.org

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Katie Reed

Japanese Knotweed and our Rivers

On: July 10, 2023

In: AIS, aquatic invasive species, Bay of Green Bay, Fox-Wolf Watershed Alliance, FWWA, habitat, invasive species, Japanese Knotweed, Keepers of the Fox, Lake Butte des Morts, lake management planning, Lake Poygan, Lake Winnebago, Lake Winneconne, Lower Fox River, Melinda Myers, Outreach, Outreach and Education, restoration, Shoreline Restoration, watershed, WDNR, Winnebago, Winnebago Waterways

Gardener Extraordinaire Melinda Myers Gives Insight into Japanese Knotweed

During last month’s National Rivers Month, Melinda Myers took a moment to highlight the over 3.5 million miles of rivers and streams in the United States. In addition to outlining the amazing things our waters do for us (including supplying water for drinking and for irrigating crops), Melinda brought attention to a riverside invasive species; Japanese knotweed. This plant was original brought to America as an ornamental but quickly spread through much of the United States. With bamboo-like stems, this invasive plant is known to choke waterways and hasten erosion. If you are one of the folks who has Japanese knotweed growing along your shorelines, there are great control options available.

To learn more, including control methods, check out this Japanese Knotweed brochure: https://widnr.widen.net/s/jzxjqrs867/wy0090?fbclid=IwAR2q36KUKGAJ4NJfAZ7N8S6MOeOgx-NPEV1T-LD3lzp6nMdXFvRWum-ssKQ

Photo Credit: Paul Skawinski, Melinda Myers

Questions? Comments? Contact Chris Acy, the AIS Coordinator covering Brown, Outagamie, Fond du Lac, Calumet, and Winnebago Counties at (920) 460-3674 or chris@fwwa.org!

Check out the Keepers of the Fox Program at https://fwwa.org/watershed-recovery/lower-fox-recovery/

The post Japanese Knotweed and our Rivers appeared first on Fox-Wolf Watershed Alliance.

https://fwwa.org/2023/07/10/japanese-knotweed-and-our-rivers/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=japanese-knotweed-and-our-rivers

Meet Your 2023 Aquatic Invasive Species Education Team!

On: May 24, 2023

In: AIS, ais educators, aquatic invasive species, Butte des Morts, CBCW, Clean Boats, Clean Boats Clean Waters, clean drain dry, drain, Fond du Lac, Fox-Wolf Watershed Alliance, FWWA, inspect, invasive, Lake Butte des Morts, Lake Poygan, Lake Winnebago, Lake Winneconne, never move, Outreach, Outreach and Education, prevention, remove, seasonal, Winnebago, Winnebago Lakes, Winnebago Waterways, Winneconne

Education Team Welcomes You to the Boat Launches

Every summer, the Fox-Wolf Watershed Alliance and partner organizations across the state welcome new hires to help prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species. These new staff members help with the Clean Boats, Clean Waters Program and talk with water users at local boat launches. Thanks to a contract from the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, the Fox-Wolf Watershed Alliance was able to grow our aquatic invasive species program in the Winnebago Waterways by hiring five educators for Summer 2023! Take a minute to learn more about the seasonal team that is working directly to protect your local waters!

Tim – CBCW Coordinator

Tim joins the Fox-Wolf Watershed Alliance doing the Clean Boats, Clean Waters project as the project Coordinator. He is a junior at UW-Oshkosh majoring in Environmental Studies, with a minor in Geography. He loves to be in his garden and outside; plants are kind of his thing! In addition to being at the boat launches this summer, Tim will be coordinating the CBCW Program including making schedules, checking in on with the Educators, and getting our data uploaded correctly!

Leah – AIS Educator

Leah is joining the CBCW crew as an AIS educator for her first year. She is a senior at the University of Wisconsin and is studying to finish a degree in Environmental Studies with a Geology minor. She has always loved being outside in nature. Growing up, she went camping and hiking a lot with her my mom and she would always pick up garbage. She is now dedicating her life to advocating for the needs of the Earth and for all other beings. She is thrilled to start her position with the Clean Boats, Clean Waters Program to help conserve our local waters.

Mikayla – AIS Educator

Mikayla returns for her second year with the Fox-Wolf Watershed Alliance as an Aquatic Invasive Species Educator. She graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh with a Biology Degree. She is excited to be back this summer and meet some new boaters! Mikayla also works at a local YMCA as the Building Supervisor!

Lisa – AIS Educator

Lisa joins the Fox-Wolf Watershed Alliance and the Clean Boats Clean Waters Program team as a first year Educator! Originally from New York City, Lisa has called Wisconsin home for over 30 years! For the past two years, she’s been located on a canal on Lake Winnebago in Oshkosh. Lisa ran her own Chiropractic office for 27 years. She is looking forward to working to protect her favorite place; the great outdoors!

Steve – AIS Educator

Steve Berholtz is working on his fifth year (!!) as a summer AIS employee with the main job of informing and educating boaters at various boat landings. Steve graduated in 1974 from UW-Oshkosh with a BS in Mathematics and a minor in Economics. He worked for 40 years for Canteen Vending and also put in 34 years in the Army Reserves. He loves to hunt pheasants in South Dakota and Wisconsin with his hunting dog, Skye. Steve wants to help improve and protect the Winnebago System for future generations!

If you’re a boater or angler, make sure to say hello if you see our team at your favorite boat launch!

Photo Credit: Tim Burns, Leah Fleury, Mikayla Wing, Steve Berholtz, Lisa Roth, Alyssa Reinke (Fox-Wolf), Chris Acy (Fox-Wolf)

Questions? Comments? Contact Chris Acy, the AIS Coordinator covering Brown, Outagamie, Fond du Lac, Calumet, and Winnebago Counties at (920) 460-3674 or chris@fwwa.org!

Check out the Keepers of the Fox Program at https://fwwa.org/watershed-recovery/lower-fox-recovery/

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