STURGEON BAY, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) — An invasive species has made its way into Door County.
Looking at the potential impact a worm could make on Sturgeon Bay, the city is taking preventative measures.
“Everyone comes here ’cause it’s free but, now you can’t get it,” said Greg Gorz, a Door County Resident.
The City of Sturgeon Bay confirms the infestation of the Asian Jumping Worm in its composting site after a local resident filed a claim, having found the species in the mulch pile.
Josh VanLieshout, the City Administrator of Sturgeon Bay, says… “The city is working with the D-N-R to quantify and determine the spread.”
The Door County Invasive Species team of experts is aiding in the effort.
The city met with the organizations on July 14, to discuss, investigate, and begin plans.
VanLieshout says… “in the meantime, residents can continue to drop off, but are not to remove any mulch or compost from the site” …that normally is free for the taking by Sturgeon Bay residents.
The Asian Jumping Worm is an asexual, annual species that lays cocoons as small as a mustard seed. Making it fast producing and easily spread.
“I don’t know where they came from but, don’t bother me,” added Gorz.
Gorz is thankful that the news hasn’t impacted his wood scraps dropoff.
The invasive species has been found in the mulch piles here but has not yet made its impact on the compost. However, local residents we’ve talked to seem unconcerned that this will be a large-scale issue.
“I’m not that worried about it because they got on it really quick and they’ve stopped anybody from taking mulch or compost at this point just to make sure that they can get the worms killed off,” said Rod Simmons, a seasonal Sturgeon Bay Resident.
In-process compost is, in most cases, too hot for the species to survive.
Experts express concern, however, for finished compost piles that people can take home.
Simmons and his wife have previously picked up compost from the site.
“Worms evidently can handle the mulch but they can’t handle being in the compost and that’s why we never saw any,” added Simmons.
Visitors are asked not to walk or drive behind the barricades as the worms and cocoons can easily be transported by tire treads and the bottom of shoes.
VanLieshout says… “in the coming weeks, the city and the DNR will come up with a plan to address the issue.”
Those who have taken mulch or compost from the site and are interested in learning how to identify the species on their property can find more information on the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources website.
Comments