Bring the View Back to Bay View
Together, we can restore the bluff on South Shore Dr. to its peak beauty and preserve it for generations.
Once, this was the best view of Milwaukee β a true hidden gem. Today, invasive plants and overgrowth have hidden it away. Letβs bring it back.
View of the horizon from sidewalk
Invasive species blocking the vista
Drag the slider to compare
2025
2014
View of downtown Milwaukee from South Shore Dr. sidewalk.
2025
2014
South-west view from South Shore Dr. sidewalk.
Invasive species are harming native plants and disrupting local ecosystems
Reclaim this unique public space for all Bay View residents to enjoy
Re-open breathtaking views of Milwaukee's skyline for everyone
These invasive species are taking over our bluff. Learn to identify them and help us remove them.
Cirsium arvense
Spreads rapidly through underground roots, forming dense patches that crowd out native plants.
Learn more βRobinia pseudoacacia
Fast-growing tree that forms dense thickets, blocking views and shading out native understory plants.
Learn more βCampanula rapunculoides
Aggressive perennial that spreads through root fragments, difficult to remove once established.
Learn more βMorus alba
Produces abundant fruit that birds spread, leading to new invasive populations throughout the area.
Learn more βGaleopsis tetrahit
Annual weed that competes aggressively with native plants for nutrients and space.
Learn more βLonicera spp.
Woody vine that climbs over and smothers native trees and shrubs, reducing biodiversity.
Learn more βAdditional species that contribute to the problem
Rosa multiflora
Dense, thorny shrub that forms impenetrable thickets, crowding out native vegetation.
Learn more βRhamnus cathartica
Rapidly spreading shrub that alters soil chemistry and eliminates understory plants.
Learn more βLeonurus cardiaca
Perennial herb that spreads aggressively in disturbed soils and shaded areas.
Learn more βSouth Shore Dr and East Bennett Ave
Join your neighbors for food, fun, and community! We'll be grilling hot dogs and celebrating together. Come learn about the Buff the Bluff initiative and how you can get involved.
There are many ways you can help restore the bluff's natural beauty
Join us for monthly restoration work parties
Support equipment and native species restoration
Share our mission with friends and neighbors
Get volunteer dates & progress updates
The bluff has been Bay View's crown jewel for generations. Here's what longtime residents remember.
"This is my favorite view of Lake Michigan"
"This is the worst Iβve ever seen the bluff."
Dale Guldan / Milwaukee Journal Sentinel (1987)
Buff the Bluff is a Friends of Bay View Park Inc initiative.