"Invasive Plants are non-indigenous species or strains that
become established in natural communities and wild areas,
replacing native vegetation" (Invasive Plant Association of
Wisconsin Web Site). Why Should We Care about Invasive Plants?
Students, researchers, and the public come to the Lakeshore
Nature Preserve to learn, study, and enjoy nature. Invasive non-
native plant species threaten natural areas and restoration
efforts. They invade natural areas, killing existing native
plants and creating a simplified ecosystem that will not support
a diverse set of native animals. They also invade restorations,
preventing the establishment of native plants. Many of these
invasive plants increase erosion by killing native ground level
plants that normally hold soil. Many invasive plants have become
established in the Lakeshore Nature Preserve including: Garlic
Mustard, a ground layer plant, kills native woodland wildflowers
by shading them. Buckthorn and Honeysuckle, shrubs that form
brushy thickets, shade out unde