Interested in supporting our mission to support the Northern Unit of the Kettle Moraine State Forest?
Consider donating to this worthy charitable organization at DONATE
Interested in volunteering? Check below for opportunities.
THANK YOU to all the 99 individual volunteers that gave 1426.75 hours to our mission in 2025!!
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This year marks the beginning of the sixth year of volunteer effort to affect positive change in our environment. Many of the invasive species that we have been working on can easily diminish the biodiversity of the native flora in the Forest. We are lucky to have 12 state natural areas in the KMSF-NU. Our state natural areas are designated to preserve the best of Wisconsin prairies, forests, and wetlands. These unique places are home to 90% of Wisconsin’s threatened and endangered plant species and 75% of the animal species. We have been working intensively in two of these SNAs for the last five years.
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🌿 2026 Volunteer Opportunities
This year marks the eighth year of volunteer efforts to create positive change in our environment. Many invasive species we’ve been targeting can significantly reduce the biodiversity of native flora in the Forest.
We are fortunate to have 12 State Natural Areas (SNAs) within the Kettle Moraine State Forest–Northern Unit. These areas preserve some of Wisconsin’s finest prairies, forests, and wetlands, and are home to 90% of the state’s threatened and endangered plant species and 75% of its animal species. Over the past six years, we have focused intensive efforts on two of these SNAs.
Dear Stewards,
We have one more week to pull garlic mustard at Haskell Noyes SNA, and there is still a significant amount remaining on the south end. I am hoping for a large turnout so we can clear as much as possible. We didn’t have as much help this year.
Please consider helping during the following shifts, even if you can only join us for part of the time:
– Tonight (Tuesday) 6/02: 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
– Thursday 6/04: 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
– Saturday 6/06: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
If you cannot arrive exactly at the start time, please call us so we can direct you to our location. You can reach me on my cell phone (920-533-8939) on Tuesday and Saturday, or contact Doug (920-979-1357) on Thursday.
Thank you for your help! Best regards, Connie Ramthun
Volunteer Coordinator-Friends of Kettle Moraine
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🌳 Haskell Noyes State Natural Area
Haskell Noyes SNA is a 61-acre dry-mesic forest that was never heavily logged during the 19th century. Purchased in 1947 to prevent logging, it became a State Natural Area in 1952. Its rich plant diversity is threatened by invasive species like garlic mustard and buckthorn—but thanks to volunteer efforts, their presence has significantly decreased.
Garlic Mustard Removal Days:
- Tuesdays: May 5, 12, 19, 26 & June 2 (5–7 PM)
- Thursdays: May 7, 14, 21, 28 & June 4 (5–7 PM)
- Saturdays: May 9, 16, 23, 30 & June 6 (9 AM–12 PM)
📍 Meet at the Haskell Noyes parking lot on GGG
🌿 Spruce Lake Bog State Natural Area
One of the southernmost bogs in Wisconsin, Spruce Lake Bog features plant life typical of northern sphagnum bogs. Designated in 1968, it includes a boardwalk leading to a 35-acre lake. Volunteer work has helped reduce reed canary grass, allowing orchids, ferns, and other native plants to return.
Reed Canary Grass Removal Days:
- Tuesday, June 9 (5–7 PM)
- Thursday, June 11 (5–7 PM)
- Saturday, June 13 (9 AM–12 PM)
📍 Meet at the Spruce Lake Bog parking lot on Airport Road
🌾 Ice Age Center (OutWiGo Statewide DNR Event)
Invasive plants are taking a toll on Wisconsin’s landscapes. The DNR is working with citizens and partners to slow the spread of invasive species. Through educational outreach, strategic planning and active management, we are protecting our environment from Invasives. Join us for a short introduction on invasive species impacting the forest and then help us cut and haul some invasive woody vegetation! Participants are encouraged to bring a fillable water bottle, lunch, insect repellent, sunscreen, sturdy footwear and gloves. Hand tools will be provided. No experience is necessary to participate and all ages are welcome. All individuals 17 and under must be accompanied by an adult. This event is weather-dependent.
Group/Program Hosting: Kettle Moraine State Forest – Northern Unit
Event Location: Kettle Moraine State Forest – Northern Unit, Henry S. Reuss Ice Age Visitor Center N2875 Hwy 67, Campbellsport, WI 53010
Event Contact: Kettle Moraine State Forest – Northern Unit, DNRFWPKMNU@wisconsin.gov, 262-626-2116
Invasive Species Awareness Day:
- Saturday, June 20 (9-11 AM)
🌱 Zillmer Trail Area – Japanese Hedge Parsley
This invasive plant spreads easily by clinging to clothing and animal fur. Efforts focus on hiking trails where spread is most likely.
Volunteer Days:
- Tuesday, June 23 (5–7 PM)
- Thursday, June 25 (5–7 PM)
- Saturday, June 27 (9 AM–12 PM)
- Tuesday, June 30 (5–7 PM)
📍 Meet at the Zillmer Shelter on SS - 🌿 Zillmer Trail Area – Cut-Leaf Teasel
Currently limited in spread, this invasive plant can still be contained with early action.
Volunteer Days:
• Wednesday, July 8 (5:30 -7 PM)
• Thursday, July 9 (5:30 -7PM)
📍 Meet at the Zillmer Shelter on SS
🌼 Greenbush Kettle Prairie
This unique site contains original prairie vegetation, including undisturbed slopes and a recovering former farm field. Efforts focus on removing invasive plants to support native prairie restoration.
Volunteer Days:- Saturday, July 18 (9 AM–12 PM)
- Saturday, July 25 (9 AM–12 PM)
📍 Meet at the parking lot for Shelter #5 (north of the prairie)
📅 Additional Information
• Group outings are organized by the Stewards of the Northern Kettle Moraine
• Additional dates/times may be arranged—contact Connie to coordinate
• No volunteer events are scheduled in August
• Fall woody invasive removal dates will be announced later
Contact Information
For questions or to join the email list:
Connie Ramthun
📧 connieramthun@gmail.com
📞 920-533-8939
You’ll receive details on what to wear, what to bring, and reminders before each event.
💚 Thank You
The Friends of the Kettle Moraine are dedicated to protecting our land and water. Volunteering offers a meaningful way to contribute to preserving biodiversity while enjoying the beauty of the forest.
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Ice Age Visitor Center hours
Call the Center for current hours at 920-533-8361
Please note that the DNR urges state park visitors to do their part when visiting DNR properties. Most Wisconsin state parks, forests and other day-use areas do not have garbage or recycling bins. When you visit, please take your garbage and recyclables home with you. We all play a vital role in taking care of our natural resources. Following the Leave No Trace principles helps protect the land for generations to come. Fight the Bite! Ticks are out, and visitors should take precautions to prevent Lyme Disease.