Who gets to decide where a species belongs? What does it mean for something to be “invasive?”

The term “invasive species” is commonly used by researchers and academics. But as the authors of the Dibaginjigaadeg Anishinaabe Ezhitwaad – A Tribal Climate Adaptation Menu developed the indigenous resilience guide, they spent long hours reckoning with the term “invasive,” along with a slew of other Western terms like “climate change” and “management.” Next, we speak to scholar Paul Robbins, whose personal journey with invasive species started with a flat tire in Rajestan, India. Since then, he’s studied human interactions with nature and the politics of natural resource management. Lastly, we join a group of reptile and amphibian experts who are debating if a popular pet turtle species, the red-eared slider, should be listed as prohibited or restricted in Wisconsin’s invasive species law. 

Thanks to our guests

Paul Robbins, University of Wisconsin-Madison

Tara Bergeson, Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources

Jerry Jondreau and Katy Bresette, Dynamite Hill Farms

Melonee Montano, Great Lakes Indian Fish and Wildlife Commission

Sara Smith, College of Menominee Nation

Davin Lopez, Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources

Herptile Species Assessment Group members

Mammals Species Assessment Group members

Read more

Dibaginjigaadeg Anishinaabe Ezhitwaad – A Tribal Climate Adaptation Menu

Invasive species Rule NR-40