Invasive Species Management
The Conservancy Zone is not immune to non-native plants and trees. Garlic mustard, dame’s rocket, and buckthorn are three highly invasive species that are invading our native habitat. 1000 Islands continues to work with sustainable organizations and utilize volunteers to help control these invasive plants.
In 2018, 1000 Islands started using goats to assist in controlling invasive species on the Conservancy Zone. Twice a year a local farmer brings his goats to 1000 Islands for them to graze and eat the invasive species. Results have been very positive in the areas where the goats have grazed. The goats are scheduled to return to 1000 Islands from June 9 to June 22, 2025.
Sign Up to be a Goat Watcher at 1000 Islands
Sustainable Trail Maintenance
1000 Islands works with City and State offices to control erosion and maintain our trail system. A prairie flower lawn mix was planted, along with planting hickory and sugar maple trees to help control erosion. Erosion is prevalent in numerous areas, but plans are in place for addressing erosion both at the Nelson Overlook and on the Hoersch property.
1000 Islands will continue to make choices that are environmentally responsible, economically viable, and socially equitable for the long-term stability of the Conservancy Zone and the City of Kaukauna.
Current Wildlife Conservation Projects
Slow-Mow Summer to Support Pollinators
The City of Kaukauna is shifting from No Mow May to a Slow-Mow Summer with ways to support bees and other pollinators all summer long.
2025 Tree and Shrub Seedling Sale
1000 Islands Environmental Center holds a Tree and Shrub Seedling Sale to offer landowners and homeowners the opportunity to improve and protect the environment while beautifying and increasing the value of their property. All proceeds from the sale help fund environmental education programs and events at 1000 Islands. Thank you once again to Kaukauna Utilities for partnering with us and sponsoring the Seedling Sale.
Tree Distribution will be held on Friday, April 25 (12:00 PM – 4:00 pm) and Saturday, April 26 (10:00 AM – 3:00 pm) at 1000 Islands Nature Center. Extra seedlings will be available for purchase.
**Sold Out: White Spruce and Elderberry**
2025 Tree Seedling Species Available: White Pine and White Oak
2025 Shrub Seedling Species Available: American Elderberry, Gray Dogwood, and Nannyberry Viburnum.
2025 Tree & Shrub Seedling Order Form
Seedling Planting Guide: Seedling Planting Guide (PDF)
2025 Seedling Color Key:
White Pine – White
White Spruce – Orange
White Oak – Yellow
Elderberry Shrub – Green
Gray Dogwood Shrub – Black
Nannyberry Viburnum Shrub – Pink
Other Conservation Efforts:
Bat Monitoring – Through Lawrence University
Pollinator Project – Through Lawrence University (studying occurrence and populations of native pollinators)
Bee Hive Installation – Maintained by a local Kaukauna Citizen
Fox Valley Bald Eagle Nest Monitoring – Through Madison Audubon (now Badgerland Bird Alliance) and 1000 Islands Environmental Center
Ways That You Can Participate in Conservation
Plant native plant species in your yard
Protect local waterways by preventing storm sewer pollution