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Fox Wolf watershed scientist urges more native shoreline plantings to curb runoff
Summary
Katie Reed of Fox Wolf Watershed Alliance told the Oshkosh Sustainability Advisory Board that native plants slow and absorb runoff, reduce phosphorus that fuels harmful algal blooms, and provide habitat; she described cost-share programs, demonstration sites and starter species for residents.
Katie Reed, watershed science coordinator at Fox Wolf Watershed Alliance, told the Sustainability Advisory Board on May 4 that native shoreline and yard plantings improve water quality by slowing runoff, trapping sediment and uptaking phosphorus.
"Native plants are really great for water quality," Reed said, explaining that native species' deeper and more extensive root systems let water soak into the ground and hold soil in place. She pointed to erosion and increased phosphorus as drivers of harmful algal blooms and described native plantings as one way to reduce both runoff volume and nutrient loading.
Reed gave local examples and practical guidance: blue flag iris, wild columbine and Virginia bluebells for spring interest; prairie dropseed and lower-growing species for formal landscaping; and bee balm as a simple starter plant for many yards. "The first year they sleep, the second year they creep, and the third year they leap," she said of native-plug establishment timelines.
She described cost and availability as common barriers but said demand is growing. Reed highlighted Fox Wolf and Winnebago County cost-share programs for shoreline and onshore properties, demonstration beds in local parks, and winter-sowing workshops where residents can grow native plugs from seed.
Board member Jacob Claymire asked about planting directly in the water; Reed replied that Fox Wolf usually plants on the shoreline and works to improve conditions so native aquatic plants already in the lake can recolonize, while partner projects (including a Brothertown Nation wild‑rice reintroduction) have planted directly in some shallow areas.
Reed urged residents to consider rain gardens for stormwater capture, noting placement guidelines (roughly 10–30 feet from foundations to avoid damaging structures) and that qualifying installations may earn stormwater credits. She left contact information and offered to share planting lists and photos with board members.
The board thanked Reed and discussed volunteer support for upcoming planting events and outreach.
