Invasive species are non-native plants, animals, or insects that can damage ecosystems because they lack natural predators. Wisconsin’s NR40 rule helps residents identify, prevent, and control invasives like Eurasian watermilfoil, northern snakehead, and round goby.

The DNR emphasizes five best practices for landowners and visitors:

1. Prevention – Inspect clothing and gear, avoid known infested areas, clean equipment, and plant only native species.

2. Early Detection & Rapid Response – Report sightings quickly to reduce spread.

3. Containment & Removal – Use integrated pest management to slow and remove invaders.

4. Monitoring – Regularly check affected areas to catch return infestations.

5. Restoration – Rehabilitate affected sites to help ecosystems recover.

Everyone in Wisconsin—residents, landowners, and outdoor enthusiasts—plays a role in keeping ecosystems healthy by following these steps.

Learn more about Wisconsin’s invasive species and reporting: DNR Invasive Species

Northern Snakehead