ROCK COUNTY, Wis. (WKOW) -- The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources says a harmful, invasive plant has been discovered in Rock County.

The plant, known as Japanese stiltgrass, was found by UW–Madison Extension in a private woodland near Beloit. Officials said no other infestations were identified nearby.

According to UW experts, Japanese stiltgrass can harm forests by growing in a branching, sprawling manner that alters soil composition, reduces wildlife habitat and decreases biodiversity.

"This plant is quite harmful to our forests," said Mark Renz, a UW–Madison Extension professor and weed specialist. "It makes wildfires more frequent and severe, alters nutrient cycling and soil microbes, and reduces wildlife habitat."

Anyone who believes they have found Japanese stiltgrass is

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