Photo courtesy of the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources
The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources has named its State Natural Resources Volunteer of the Year.
Connie Ramthun earned the award because of her active role in helping native plants recover and controlling invasive species as a member of the Friends of the Kettle Moraine State Forest.
Ramthun has been a part of the State Natural Areas Volunteer Program since 2018 and established the Stewards of the Northern Kettle Moraine.
The group coordinates workdays at Haskell Noyes Woods State Natural Area and Spruce Lake Bog State Natural Area in Fond du Lac County to remove invasive plants.
DNR Superintendent Samantha Lindquist says of Ramthun, “She brings extensive skills and knowledge of native species and invasive eradication to her efforts and strives to inspire others to action. Connie’s commitment to the health of native landscapes is commendable and appreciated.”
Invasive plants on 62 acres of land a year are controlled by the Stewards of Northern Kettle Moraine to allow native plants to flourish.
Ramthun earned a wooden plaque from the DNR due to her efforts.
