March 26, 2026 | 4:00-5:30 pm
Learn how you can raise beetles to help control the wetland invasive purple loosestrife
Register below to reserve your spot!
Workshop overview
This workshop will focus on how you can raise, rear and release beetles to help control the invasive purple loosestrife that impacts our wetlands. This is a two part workshop.
Part 1 will be held at River Bend Nature Center where you will learn about the purple loosestrife biocontrol program, and the process and setup for hosting beetles in your backyard. Rearing kits will distributed.
Part 2 (optional) we will travel (separately) to the Root River off 6 Mile Road to dig and pot purple loosestrife to start your own backyard setup.
Details
Part 1
4:00-4:45 pm
River Bend Nature Center
3600 N Green Bay Rd, Racine, WI 53404
Part 2
5:00-5:30 pm
Root River at 6 Mile Road
7217 Park Rd, Racine, WI 53402
Tools will be provided. Dress for the weather. Garden gloves and footware for being in mud are recommended.
This is event is recommended for ages 10 and up; minors must be accompanied by an adult.
Visit the DNR's biocontrol website for training guides and videos to know what to expect when participating as a biocontrol volunteer aka beetle rancher.
Questions? email mccomb@wisc.edu