Roots & Rivers Partners

WRISC was formalized in 2010 when the first round of Partners signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), signifying their support for regional cooperation on invasive species education and management. From there, WRISC grew to a coalition of 67 Partners from Michigan and Wisconsin, representing citizen groups, organizations, businesses, schools, and federal, state, and local units of government. In June 2026, WRISC became Roots & Rivers Collaborative. Despite the changes, the goal remains the same: manage invasive species. 

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You do not need to be a formal Partner to participate in Roots & Rivers activities; in fact, we have several very active informal members and volunteers who participate in workdays, meetings, and trainings. However, each Partnership is a great benefit that strengthens our Coalition as we continue to seek funding for invasive species management and education across our five-county service area, which includes the Counties of Florence, Forest, and Marinette in Wisconsin, and Dickinson and Menominee in Michigan. A broad base of local support increases Roots & Rivers' chances of receiving grants to help prevent the spread of key invasive species threatening our local ecosystems. Roots & Rivers relies almost exclusively on grants. In the past several years, we have secured approximately $650,000 in grants to support local invasive species projects and create jobs. There is no cost to become a Partner, and Partners are eligible for election ot the Board of Directors, the governing body which directs the course of Roots & Rivers' activities.

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We encourage anyone considering becoming a formal partner to attend one of our Board of Directors meetings or speak to a Board member. 

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We add new partners once a year at Roots & Rivers' annual meeting in June. 

For any questions or to apply for a formal partnership, contact the Roots & Rivers coordinator at 906-774-1550 x 102 or wildriverscwma@gmail.com