Help Remove Invasive Phragmites (giant reed grass) at Cherokee Marsh State Natural Area

The Cherokee Marsh State Natural Area (SNA) is home to areas of high quality, diverse wetland flowers, sedges, and grasses. Join us in helping keep the wetlands clear of phragmites. We'll mainly focus on scattered resprouts in areas we've previously cleared. Volunteers are needed to use twine to tie the stalks in bundles. We will then cut the stalks above the twine and treat the cut ends.  If you're planning to attend, it's helpful if you let us know by responding to info@cherokeemarsh.org. We can then inform you of any cancellations or changes.

Directions  A private landowner has generously offered space on his land for parking, shortening our hike to the work area; meet at 4401 Hoepker Rd.  Heading north from Madison on County Rd CV, after passing the VFW post with the airplane on the left, continue for about 0.2 mile. At the bottom of the hill, turn LEFT onto Hoepker Rd. Look for other volunteers parked in the grassy area on the left near the small windmill. The work area is a quarter mile hike from the parking area. If you will arrive late, let us know so someone can wait to guide you to the work area.

What to wear and bring  Be prepared to walk on uneven ground that may have standing water in spots. (Standing water is unlikely in the South Unit.) We recommend long pants, long-sleeved shirt, and hat. Work gloves are optional. Wear shin-high rubber boots or other closed-toe footwear that can get wet. Bring plenty of drinking water as the wetlands can be surprisingly hot and humid.  We will cancel if raining or threat of thunderstorms.