MADISON, Wis. – The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) invites the public to get outside, learn and take action on slowing the spread of invasive species in Wisconsin during Invasive Species Awareness Weekend (ISAW), June 20-21, 2026.

Invasive Species Awareness Weekend is a collaborative initiative hosted by multiple DNR programs and partners. The goals of ISAW are to raise awareness on invasive species and promote action through local events taking place around the state during the weekend.

The public is encouraged to attend ISAW events to discover how invasive species impact Wisconsin’s natural habitats, as well as how to manage and prevent their spread.

In 2026, more than 30 ISAW events are being held around the state. Events include educational programs, invasive species control workshops, guided hikes and more. Many of these events offer activities for participants of all ages.

Volunteers attending fieldwork events are encouraged to wear gloves, closed-toed shoes, long sleeves and pants that can get dirty. Most events will take place outdoors, so attendees are reminded to bring plenty of sunscreen and water; water refill stations may be available at some events.

Invasive species are nonnative plants, animals and diseases that can cause harm to the economy, environment or human health. They can be spread via mud or burs on shoes, clothing or pets; it’s important to clean yourself, your equipment and your pet after spending time outdoors. 

To find an event near you, search the DNR events calendar using the keywords “invasive species awareness weekend” or check out the Invasive Species Events And Volunteering webpage for a complete list of events.

Sample Events

Events happening during Invasive Species Awareness Weekend include:

Saturday, June 20

  • Bumble Bees and Other Pollinators, a drop-in educational program for all ages at Roche-A-Cri State Park
  • Out with Invasives! a volunteer workday at Kohler-Andrae State Park.
  • Forest Recovery and the Challenge of Invasive Species, a guided hike at Newport State Park
  • Invasive Species Awareness Day at the Glacial Passage Area with the Dane County Chapter of the Ice Age Trail Alliance
  • Exotic Pet Surrender Event with our partner J&R Aquatic Animal Rescue in Madison
  • Invasive Species Removal and History Hike at Aztalan State Park

Sunday, June 21

  • Take A Hike To Understand Invasives, a guided hike at High Cliff State Park
  • Invasive Species Awareness Hike, a guided hike at the Kettle Moraine State Forest – Pike Lake Unit
  • Invasive Species Awareness Day educational session and invasive species removal project at Whitefish Dunes State Park
  • Volunteer Invasive Species Removal Workday at Richard Bong State Recreation Area