Northwest Lower Michigan abounds with some of Michigan's most prized natural areas and heritage. Now the region faces new threats from invasive species which have joined the ranks of pollution and habitat loss to become a leading threat to the environment. Our future capacity to enjoy hunting, hiking, fishing, mushroom collecting, bird watching, and many other recreational pursuits depends on our efforts today. Preventing and controlling invasive species threats makes as much sense as weatherizing a home; minor efforts today will mean lasting benefits for the future.

The Invasive Species Network (ISN) developed the Top 20 Least Wanted list for northwestern lower Michigan, representing the greatest invasive plant threats. Unfortunately, many on the list were introduced for landscaping purposes.

To learn more about the Invasive Species Network and get more details on the Top 20 Least Wanted, visit: NatureisCalling.org

What can you do?

• Learn to identify invasive species.
• Avoid traveling through areas infested with invasive plants. Clean up seeds or plant parts from boots, animals and gear between hiking or hunting trips.
• Drain all the water from your boat, motor, bilge, live well, and bait containers before leaving a water access; dispose of unwanted bait in the trash.
• Wash your boat before going to a new lake, river or stream.
• Drive on established roads and ride or hike on designated trails.
• Avoid using them in your garden. Don't plant 'em, Don't spread 'em.
• Native species provide much better food & cover for native wildlife. Ask your local nursery to carry native or non-invasive alternative species instead.

PLANT HERITAGE WEEK - May 5 - 12th

A week-long event to increase awareness of invasive species and to celebrate our region's prized natural areas! There will be a great variety of events taking place in each of the 5 counties covered by the Invasive Species Network. Hikes, tours, work-bees and workshops are scheduled that you won't want to miss! For the complete schedule of events, click here: Plant Heritage Week

"Looking Beyond the Landscape" workshop

Matthew Bertrand, Invasive Species Specialist with Grand Traverse Conservation District will be presenting the workshop to area garden clubs on Friday, May 11th from 3:00 - 5:00 p.m. at the Boyne District Library. For more information on the workshop, contact Kelly at 231.582.6193.

"Getting a Grip on Invasive Species" workshop

To be held during the Beaver Island Invasive Species Summit, June 14th from 2:00 - 5:00 p.m. at the Beaver Island Community Center. Participants will be introduced to the treasures of the Island, learn about high value conservation areas plus many threatened and endangered species. Learn why invasives are a concern, what's being done to manage and/or eliminate these invasives and how you can help!

All attendees will receive a free Field Identification Guide to Invasive Plants in Michigan's Natural Communities ($10 value). For more information, contact Pam Grassmick at 248.489.0784.

The Beaver Island Association's Endangered & Invasive Species Management Initiative - NOTICE NATURE!! The purpose of the initiative is to identify & inventory endangered species & invasive plant species on Beaver Island and devise environmentally appropriate & effective measures to protect the former and control the latter.

For more information on the project, read about it in the newsletter provided below. Or visit their web page by clicking here.

Michigan Natural Features Inventory

Click here to visit their web page for more information on the threats of invasive species.