Invasive species

Aquatic invasive species

Additional information about invasive species can be found at Michigan.gov/Invasives/Take-Action.

Invasive plants and animals like phragmites, European frog-bit and zebra mussels can cause significant harm to wildlife habitat, reduce hunting opportunities and damage equipment.

Invasive species are often spread unintentionally. Microscopic organisms and aquatic vegetation readily attach to equipment, and without proper steps to remove them, they are unknowingly transported from one lake, river or wetland to another.

To help prevent the spread of invasive species and protect waterfowl habitat, hunters should take the following precautions:

• Do not use invasive phragmites (common reed) as part of a blind; it is a prohibited species in Michigan and illegal to possess without a permit.
• Switch to anchor designs that prevent aquatic plants from becoming attached.
• Inspect all gear and equipment before and after use, including anchors, decoys and lines, blinds, waders, and clothing. Remove any plants, animals or soils.
• Learn to identify common invasive species and report sightings to the Midwest Invasive Species Information Network at MISIN.MSU.edu.

Yes. Michigan law requires that you remove all aquatic plants from watercraft, watercraft equipment and trailers before placing these into Michigan waters. Prior to transporting any watercraft over land, boaters are required to do all of the following:

• Remove all drain plugs from bilges, ballast tanks and live wells.
• Drain all water from any live wells and bilges.
• Ensure that the watercraft, trailer and any conveyance used to transport the watercraft or trailer are free of aquatic organisms, including plants.

This means that after trailering boats, and before getting on the road, boaters must pull plugs, drain water and remove plants and debris. Violation of the law is a state civil infraction, and violators may be subject to fines up to $100. For more information on this law, see Michigan’s Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act (Act 451 of 1994) Part 413.

Nutria

Nutria are approximately twice the size of a muskrat. They have heavy, scaly, round, rat-like tails; long, white whiskers; and large, orange teeth.

Although nutria have not yet been discovered in Michigan, they could cause damage to wetlands if they become established. You are encouraged to report nutria that you have seen or trapped to the Midwest Invasive Species Information Network at MISIN.MSU.edu/Report.

Russian boar

Russian boar, also known as feral swine, wild boar or wild hogs, have dark-colored coats with light-tipped bristles. They have long, straight and narrow snouts relative to domestic pigs. For more information on how to identify Russian boar sign, visit Michigan.gov/FeralSwine.

Yes. Russian boar can be hunted and trapped, year-round, statewide with a valid base license. Russian boar can be taken on public land by anyone possessing a valid hunting license or a concealed pistol license, or on private land with the landowner’s permission. Anyone who harvests a Russian boar is asked to submit parts of the animal to the DNR for disease testing.

You are encouraged to report all Russian boar seen or taken at Michigan.gov/FeralSwine or by calling 517-284-4725.

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