Our parks need you! 

Milwaukee County Parks contain most of the county’s remaining natural areas. These valuable areas are seriously threatened by aggressive non-native plants referred to as “invasive weeds.” Invasive weeds can dominate an area so completely that they crowd out native wildflowers, shrubs, and even trees. When the native plants are gone, so are the wildlife that depend on them. Some of the worst invasive weeds affecting our parks include garlic mustard, dame’s rocket, buckthorn, honeysuckle, and Japanese Tree Lilac. In fact, many parks natural areas are already overrun by one or more of these swift-spreading species. If nothing is done to reverse this trend, the beauty, ecological and economic health of our park system will be in jeopardy.

The Park People provide support for the Friends of Grant Park each spring and fall as we work to remove invasive weeds that threaten our park’s plant diversity. If you would like to participate, even if only for a portion of the morning,  come prepared to work: we recommend wearing a long sleeve shirt, long pants, socks and sturdy shoes (long pants and socks are good for tick prevention). If you have a pair of sturdy work gloves, bring them along (gloves provided if you don’t have a pair). Middle school and high school teams are encouraged to participate, as are congregations and businesses. Please let us know in advance if your group wishes to participate.

• A Volunteer Agreement can also be completed online: https://www.cognitoforms.com/MilwaukeeCountyParks1/MilwaukeeCountyParksVolunteerAgreement

Join us to get the Weed-Out!

Help us remove invasive plants like buckthorn, honeysuckle and Japanese Tree Lilac that overtake the native plants and flowers in the park…

We can provide tools, bug spray, and work gloves if desired, or bring your own. Volunteers are advised to wear long pants, socks and sturdy shoes. This activity is NOT recommended for volunteers under the age of 15.

Saturdays, 9-11am (or noon)

October 4, 11, 18 & 25

Oct. 4: meet at Tennis court parking lot

Oct. 11: Meeting area TBA

Oct. 18: Meeting area TBA

Oct. 25: Meeting area TBA