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Invasive Species
Invasive species have negative ecological, economic, social and public health impacts. They have been widely identified as a serious threat to global and local biodiversity. Once established, they often out-compete native species for limited resources such as food and habitat, alter and damage existing habitat, displace native species and in some cases prey directly upon native species. Their impacts are found in our waterways, along our roadsides, in our wilderness areas and in both rural and urban communities. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources recognizes these threats and is working hard to prevent new invasions, limit the spread of existing invasions and limit their associated impacts. |
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Invasive Species of the Month
Wild Parsnip (Pastinaca sativa)
| Wild parsnip is an invasive herbaceous perennial plant that spends one or more years in a rosette stage and then blooms under favorable conditions. It can grow to 5 feet in height and has a long, thick taproot. Like many non-native invasive plants, wild parsnip can tolerate a wide range of growing conditions and habitats including prairies, savannas and fens. It is also commonly found along roadsides, pastures and open agricultural fields. Reproduction and spread of wild parsnip is by seed. The long, pinnately compound leaves form a basal rosette that produces numerous small yellow five-petaled flowers in June through mid-July. WARNING: This plant contains chemicals in the leaves, stems, flowers and fruits that can cause intense, localized burning, rashes, and/or blistering that is intensified with exposure to sunlight. DO NOT touch or handle this plant with your bare hands. DO NOT allow children to play near wild parsnip. DO wash your skin immediately with soap and water if you are exposed to the sap. For more detailed information and identification, check the Field Guide to Invasive Plants in Michigan's Natural Communities. |
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Invasive Species News
| DNR releases update on health of Michigan's forest land Michigan's 19.3 million acres of forest land play a key role in the state's recreation, timber and other important industries, and the health of those forests is essential to sustaining this vital resource for many generations. The Department of Natural Resources recently released its 2012 Forest Health Highlights report, an overview of Michigan's forests, the insects and diseases that have threatened them over the past year, and details about what DNR staff is doing to improve forest resources. |
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