This is National Invasive Species Awareness Week, and everyone’s encouraged to learn about the invasive species threatening habitat in their area.
Michigan Department of Natural Resources invasive species communications specialist Joanne Foreman tells us hundreds of non-native bugs, fish, and plants have gotten into Michigan over the years, but the DNR really keeps an eye on the most recent threats. Those include the hemlock wooly adelgid, spotted lantern fly, and hydrilla. She says these invasives can choke out native species in Michigan.
“They are basically able to out-compete our native species,” Foreman said. “So when you see them, they tend to be able to really spread quite quickly and take over habitat or take over food sources, etc.”
Michigan’s Invasive Species Program is joining efforts across all 50 states to encourage everyone to take action to prevent the introduction and spread of harmful plants, animals, and diseases. Foreman says it’s up to us all to help prevent their spread and report sightings.
“There’s a handful of folks that work in this area, but there are thousands and thousands of folks that are outdoors on any given day, and we need the eyes and ears of folks like that to help us locate new infestations of some of these really damaging species.”
The invasive plant, hydrilla, was found in a Berrien Springs pond in 2023. You can find photos of it and other invasives that everyone can watch out for as they’re hiking, boating, and fishing right here.
Foreman says we can prevent the spread of invasives by cleaning debris off ourselves, our pets, and our boats after venturing into the great outdoors. Anyone can also volunteer to work with their local CISMA, which is a group that prevents invasive species. Each county has one.
To learn more about invasives, go to Michigan.gov/Invasives.
