NORTHEAST WISCONSIN – The DNR has confirmed the first known populations of pale swallow-wort, an invasive vine, in Wisconsin after the plant was discovered near the Town of Krakow along the Shawano-Oconto county line.
Officials say the discovery marks the first documented occurrence of the invasive species anywhere in the state, making rapid response efforts critical to preventing it from becoming established.
The plant was initially reported by the Timberland Invasives Partnership through the Early Detection and Distribution Mapping System (EDDMapS), an online invasive species reporting program.
According to the DNR, pale swallow-wort spreads by twining around and growing over surrounding vegetation, allowing it to outcompete native plants, including milkweed. The vine also poses a serious threat to monarch butterflies, which may lay eggs on the plant even though caterpillars cannot survive after hatching.
State officials are now working with the Timberland Invasives Partnership, local landowners, and other organizations to locate additional populations and prevent the invasive vine from spreading.
Residents who believe they have found pale swallow-wort are encouraged to report it to the DNR by submitting photos and location information through EDDMapS or by contacting the department directly.
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