This year, Invader Crusader Awards will be given in conjunction with the Invasive Plants Association of Wisconsin’s 10th Anniversary event on Saturday, June 18 at the Swamplovers Foundation property in Cross Plains, Wisconsin. More information about this event can be found at [ipaw.org] (exit DNR).
The 2011 recipients of Invader Crusader Awards are:
Professional
- Individual: Brian Swingle, Wisconsin Green Industry Federation, Greenfield
- Individual – Nonprofit: Paul Skawinski, Golden Sands RC&D Council, Inc., Stevens Point
- Individual – Research and Education: Mark Renz, University of Wisconsin – Extension, Madison
- Government Agency: Milwaukee County Parks Department / UW- Extension Natural Areas, Wauwatosa
- Organization: Wild Rivers Invasive Species Coalition, Florence County
Volunteer
- Pair: Lee and Mary Krueger, West Bend,
- Individual – land: Jack Rasmussen, Baldwin
- Individual – aquatic: Carol Avelallemant, Lac Du Flambeau
“It is important that we recognize and encourage all of the different individuals and organizations that are working tirelessly to keep Wisconsin’s special places free of invasive species that choke out native plants and animals – both on land and water,” said Paul Schumacher, chair of the council and Wisconsin Association of Lakes board member. “The fight to reduce invasive species’ presence and keep them out of Wisconsin will be a long and hard battle for many years to come. We would not be able to do it without these and many other Invader Crusaders.”