The Wolf River Chapter of the Wild Ones (WRWO) is member of the National Wild Ones organization (www.wildones.org) As a member of the national chapter, we promote environmentally sound landscaping practices to preserve biodiversity through the preservation, restoration and establishment of native plant communities. Plus, we have a lot of fun playing in the dirt! We share advice, plants and admire our work to change our habitat, one yard at a time!
The Wolf River Chapter of the Wild Ones began meeting in 2004 and is currently very active. We have planted and maintained three display gardens in Shawano County parks. WRWO serves as a resource for individuals, schools, commercial property owners, and community decision makers as they move toward ethical choices in land use. We work with school groups, support larger shoreline projects, and have an educational booth at the Shawano Farmers Market during their market season.
WRWO members come from areas throughout northeastern Wisconsin. We are a growing group as landscape gardeners are realizing that native plants are beautiful, hardy and support the native ecosystem. Many people become interested in native plants because they would like to have a butterfly or pollinator garden. This is great! But there is more to planting native species in landscaping. Presently the national organization has made wonderfully detailed free landscape plans available on their website. Because of the increased interest in using native species, this year’s spring plant sale is the biggest in our history.
As a local chapter, we have many activities to spread the knowledge and share the experience our members. We hold two plant sales, in spring and fall. We have several display gardens in the Shawano County Park system, generously supported by our members and grants from the community and local businesses. (Thank you Cellcom and Shadows on the Wolf!!)
During the pandemic shut down, our meetings have been suspended, but we are hoping to re-start our monthly meetings soon. We have spent this down time setting up a Facebook page for Wolf River Wild Ones and started a brand-new webpage. Look there for announcements concerning future meetings.
And while you are waiting to start planting, we would ask you to consider reading “Bringing Nature Home” by Douglas W. Tallamy. This book explains the unbreakable link between native plants and native wildlife and how it can be sustained.
In addition, please consider joining our group! We are always looking for more members and welcome all experience levels. You can get your membership at the national website. You will also find tons of information, resources and guidance for the beginner and the old hand! And it’s all free.
Get Wild!
