Wisconsin Historic Site Plants 49 Trees After Beetle Loss

When the Emerald Ash Borer swept through Wisconsin's Wade House Historic Site, it left behind a devastating toll: 85% of the forest gone. But instead of accepting defeat, the community is rallying to bring the forest back to life.

This Thursday, September 24th, volunteers will plant 49 diverse trees at the Sheboygan County site. The effort brings together an impressive coalition including the Sheboygan Rotary Club's ROOTS initiative, Wisconsin DNR, and corporate partners like Johnsonville and Kohler Company.

The tree planting marks the beginning of a multi-year restoration project. The Wade House property will gradually regain its historic tree canopy, one planting season at a time.

Funding comes from the Kohler Trust for Preservation, while the City of Plymouth is donating mulch to help the young trees thrive. Volunteers from the Sheboygan County United Way Day of Caring, National Exchange Bank & Trust, and other local organizations are providing the hands-on labor.

The Emerald Ash Borer, an invasive beetle from Asia, has devastated ash tree populations across North America since its discovery in 2002. But this project shows that communities can bounce back from environmental setbacks with patience and teamwork.

The Ripple Effect

This restoration goes beyond just replacing trees. It's rebuilding habitat for local wildlife, protecting the soil from erosion, and preserving the historic character of the Wade House site for future generations to enjoy.

The collaboration also demonstrates how businesses, nonprofits, and government agencies can work together on environmental solutions. Other communities facing similar invasive species challenges now have a model to follow.

As these 49 trees take root, they'll grow into a living reminder that communities can heal the damage we face when we work together.