Rare plant monitoring gives valuable trend information

Volunteers are sought for the Wisconsin Rare Plant Monitoring Program, a community-based science program that allows plant enthusiasts to conduct surveys for rare plants around the state. The information these volunteers collect, is used to assess plant population trends during state and national conservation efforts.

The volunteer program is Wisconsin’s largest source of rare plant data.

“Whether you have botanical knowledge, a commitment to conservation or are just passionate about plants, this is a great opportunity to enjoy the outdoors, while making a difference,” said Jessica Ross, Wisconsin DNR Rare Plant Monitoring Program coordinator. “Our volunteers come from a wide variety of backgrounds and their efforts play a significant role in helping us understand the state of rare plants in Wisconsin, and inform how we might conserve them.”

Since 2013, Rare Plant Monitoring Program volunteers have checked on the health and size of rare native plant populations, in nearly every county in the state. In 2024 alone, more than 70 trained volunteers from around the state, submitted 224 reports of rare plants, including 59 populations in areas of Wisconsin, where they had not been documented before.

Rare Plant Monitoring Program volunteers are trained in surveying techniques, including how to accurately estimate large plant populations, assess habitat conditions and use GPS coordinates, to locate and mark rare plant populations. Although formal plant identification training isn’t required or included, successful volunteers often have previous experience.

Volunteers interested in attending can sign up online. A virtual training option is also available at all times, at https://wiatri.net/inventory/rareplants/volunteer/training. cfm.