The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has recognized Connie Ramthun's tireless work against invasive species by naming her the 2025 State Natural Areas Volunteer of the Year. Fighting against the spread of garlic mustard, buckthorn, and honeysuckle in the northern Kettle Moraine, Ramthun's efforts have helped to revive native plant populations. Joining forces with the State Natural Areas Volunteer Program and the Friends of Kettle Moraine State Forest board, she has also been instrumental in securing grants to further conservation efforts, according to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources.
Witnessing the displacement of homegrown flora by invasive counterparts, Ramthun, armed with passion and persistence, has been a program member since 2018. With the creation of the Stewards of the Northern Kettle Moraine, they organized workdays at Haskell Noyes Woods State Natural Area, outlined by a significant milestone—the reduction of garlic mustard by 90%, allowing for the indigenous plant life to reclaim its space. The Stewards have not only contained their conservation efforts to this locale, having spread their reach into additional forest areas, as reported by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources.
Local communities and ecosystems alike have benefited from Ramthun's leadership. According to a statement obtained by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, "Connie has dedicated many years to conserving and restoring native ecosystems," said Samantha Lindquist, superintendent of the Kettle Moraine State Forest - Northern Unit. She also lauded Ramthun's knack for rallying others to the cause, noting her "extensive skills and knowledge of native species and invasive eradication."
The Stewards of the Northern Kettle Moraine, under Ramthun's guidance, have clocked an annual average of 150 volunteer hours dedicated to state natural areas since 2020. In the span of a year, volunteers have successfully managed to control garlic mustard over a 62-acre stretch at Haskell Noyes Woods. Bolstered by events held mainly in May and June, this diligent work maintains the forest floor's native tapestry, integral to the broader ecosystem's health. Embarking on the next phase of conservation, Ramthun is now looking to mentor an apprentice volunteer to ensure the continuity of these environmental stewardship efforts, as per the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources.
