Working together against invasive species
Since 2009, the Invasive Species Rule* has established consistent regulations for harmful invasive species across the state. The rule helps citizens learn to identify and minimize the spread of plants, animals and diseases that can invade our lands and waters and cause significant damage. With few exceptions, it is now illegal to sell, transport or introduce regulated invasive species. More information and lists of current regulated species can be found on the DNR's Invasive Species Rule webpage.
Changes ahead
In order to address the rising issue of invasive species throughout the state, the DNR is now working with the Wisconsin Invasive Species Council and stakeholders to revise the rule and add newly assessed invasive species to the regulated lists. The documents below show the timeline for revising the rule and the species under consideration. If you are not familiar, the DNR's terminology page defines the regulatory categories.
Proposed Rule Revision Timeline
Species under consideration & Council recommendations
Recommended species highlights
Video Presentation of recommended changed
VIDEO: 
Your input is valuable
Over the next year, the DNR will solicit input on the listing of these species. The rule revisions are anticipated to take effect in 2014. If you would like to receive email updates on this rule change process, please sign up for DNR invasive species rule email updates here.
You can provide comments to the DNR at Invasive.Species@wi.gov or 608.266.6437.
* Resulting from legislative direction in Wisconsin State Statute 23.22, Wisconsin’s Invasive Species Identification, Classification and Control Rule (ch. NR 40, Wis. Adm. Code) was signed into effect on September 1, 2009. On October 28, 2009, Act 55 ensured consistent regulation of the transportation of invasive species by amending sections of Wisconsin state statute chapters 23, 30, 66, 287, and 345.
