Upcoming Webinars in the Series

November 20, 2024, 9:00 - 10:00 AM
Beauty or beast? Tackling invasive Himalayan balsam in the Upper Peninsula
Invasive Himalayan balsam (Impatiens glandulifera) isn’t well known across Michigan, but it has been detected in isolated regions of the Upper Peninsula. With showy, orchid-like blooms and high nectar volume, this plant is attractive to both humans and wildlife, so what’s the problem? Join Nick Cassel, Upper Peninsula Resource Conservation and Development Council director, Elise Desjarlais, Lake to Lake CISMA coordinator, and Michael Hindy, Three Shores CISMA coordinator, to find out why Himalayan balsam is such a concern, what's being done to manage it, and what landowners can do to help.

Tuesday, January 14, 2025, 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.
Don’t let it loose! Protecting Michigan’s waterways from pesky pets and plants
Aquariums and water gardens provide peace and serenity to homes and public spaces; however, they also are home to non-native animals and plants that don’t belong in the wild. Since 2015, Michigan State University Extension has been empowering aquarium and water garden retailers to make sound stocking decisions and to share the “don’t let it loose” message with their customers through the Reduce Invasive Pet and Plant Escapes (RIPPLE) campaign. Join Paige Filice, natural resources educator and associate director of the MSUE Center for Lakes and Streams to learn about the pet and garden trade and how the “don’t let it loose” message is being promoted through surrender events and partnerships with leading retailers and conservation organizations.


Tuesday, February 25, 2025, 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.
Road trippin’: How MDOT manages Michigan’s highways
Picture it – you’re driving along I-75 on a Friday afternoon, either heading out on a vacation or heading home for the weekend. The sun is shining, the air is warm, and traffic is moving. Life is good – But do you notice what’s happening in the landscape around you? Is the grass mowed along the highway? What kinds of plants are growing? Is litter strewn about? If you suddenly got a flat tire, would you have a spot to pull over? Join us as we talk with Carla Ahlschwede of the Michigan Department of Transportation to learn more about how they keep our highways safe and the role MDOT plays in Michigan’s Invasive Species Program by keeping the rights-of-way clear of invasive species.


Thursday, March 27, 2025, 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.
Now you see me, now you don’t! The trick of finding and managing invasive lesser celandine
In 2024, lesser celandine (Ficaria verna), a spring ephemeral plant found in forest floodplains, was added to Michigan’s watch list. With this plant, timing is critical; it appears very early in spring and hides underground well before summer’s heat begins. Learn about the impacts, identification and management strategies for lesser celandine from Katie Grzesiak, terrestrial invasive species coordinator with the Department of Natural Resources. You’ll finish prepared to become a spring lesser celandine spotter on your next outdoor adventure.


Wednesday, April 30, 2025, 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.
They’ll need that hug: How climate change is increasing native and invasive threats to Michigan’s trees
Invasive insects and diseases, including hemlock woolly adelgid, beech bark and beech leaf disease, are taking a toll on Michigan’s forests. As if this weren’t enough, the changing climate is further stressing trees and may lead to greater impacts by both invasive and native insects and diseases. Join forest entomologist Erin Biggs and forest pathologist Simeon Wright of the Department of Natural Resources to learn more about these emerging issues, how they are being addressed, and which may have the biggest impact on Michigan’s forests and urban landscapes.

Recorded webinars in this series:

Getting down to the nitty gritty: Oak wilt spread and vector behavior research in Michigan  (recorded 10/29/24, 60 min)
Oak wilt is an invasive fungal pathogen that spreads underground through interconnected roots and also above ground by beetles that carry, or vector, the pathogen. Nitidulid beetles, also called sap beetles, act as oak wilt vectors. They are attracted to sap from fresh wounds on trees which become entry points for the fungus. Knowing exactly when these beetle vectors are active in the spring and summer can determine the “no pruning” season recommended to protect oaks. Join Dr. Tara Bal and Katie Bershing from the College of Forest Resources and Environmental Science at Michigan Technological University as they explain how to identify and prevent oak wilt and share results from their ongoing research into oak wilt vector behavior in northern Michigan. 

See it. Squish it. Report it. What you need to know about invasive spotted lanternfly  (recorded 7/17/24, 60 min)
Spotted lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula) is an invasive insect that has spread throughout the mid-Atlantic and parts of the Midwest since its discovery in central Pennsylvania in 2014. Spotted lanternfly damages plants directly while feeding and excretes honeydew that can foul surfaces and attract other pests. Infestations in both rural and urban areas can be a significant nuisance to the public. Join the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development’s Robert Miller and Lindsay Patrick to learn about spotted lanternfly and why it’s important for Michiganders to “See it. Squish it. Report it.”

Invading Classrooms: Empowering Students to Take Action on Invasive Species (recorded 6/25/24, 56 min)
If you’re looking for a successful model for infusing invasive species education in the classroom, Lake Superior State University’s Beth Christiansen has one. “Invading Classrooms and Communities” brings together students, teachers, natural resource mentors, and staff from LSSU’s Center for Freshwater Research and Education to conduct hands-on research into local invasive species issues. Join Christiansen to learn how this collaboration has fostered local, student-led stewardship projects to raise awareness and inspire action in communities across Northern Michigan.

A Herculean Task: Containing the First Hydrilla Infestation in Michigan (recorded 5/21/24, 56 min)
The mythic Hydra was a water serpent that sprouted two heads for every one cut off. In a similar fashion, hydrilla - said to be the most invasive aquatic plant in the world - can grow new plants from stem fragments, making it a formidable challenge to control. That challenge now faces Michigan, where hydrilla was recently detected for the first time. Join Billy Keiper from EGLE Water Resources Division to find out why hydrilla is such a threat, how the Michigan Invasive Species Program is working to eradicate it, and what you can do to help identify and report it.

Untangling the Knot: Identifying Effective Detection and Treatment Regimes for Invasive Knotweeds (recorded 4/11/24, 60 min)
Invasive knotweeds are a growing problem throughout Michigan. In the Upper Peninsula, a collaborative effort is underway to find the best methods for detecting and managing these aggressive plants. Dorthea Vander Bilt of Michigan Tech Research Institute, Michigan Technological University, Sigrid Resh of the Keweenaw Invasive Species Management Area and MTU, and Matt Watkeys of Alger Conservation District will share the results of their recent research. The team studied various chemical, manual and integrated control methods on Japanese, Bohemian and giant knotweed species and employed remote sensing to detect and prioritize knotweed populations across the landscape.

I Wash My Bottom, Do You? Engaging the Boating Industry in AIS Prevention (recorded 3/21/24, 36 min)
In 2021, the Michigan Boating Industries Association got on board with state efforts to help boaters understand their role in stopping the spread of aquatic invasive species. With help from the Michigan Invasive Species Grant Program, MBIA launched its Boaters Prevent AIS Initiative. Join MBIA’s Amanda Wendecker to learn how an industry push, along with an eye-catching campaign has helped engage thousands of boaters across the state. After registering, you will receive an email from "EGLE Outreach" with a link for you to use to join the webinar.

What’s the damage? Ecology and Effects of Invasive European Frog-bit in the St. Marys River  (recorded 2/07/24, 61 min)
European frog-bit was first detected in southeast Michigan in 1996 and has since spread along the coastal areas of lakes Erie, Huron and Michigan and to some inland lakes. Kevin Kapuscinski, associate professor and assistant director of research at Lake Superior State University's Center for Freshwater Research and Education, has been studying the aquatic invasive plant and its effects on native ecosystems and water quality since 2019. He will share what’s been learned about plant reproduction, removal efforts and impacts based on research in the St. Marys River in the Upper Peninsula.

Dirt Never Hurt, but Invasive Species Do – Engaging ORVers to Stop Invasive Spread(recorded 1/23/24, 58 min)
In the off-roading world, a muddy 4x4 is a badge of honor, but dirt, mud and trail debris also can carry invasive plant fragments and seeds from one beautiful landscape to another. When the North Country Cooperative Invasive Species Management Area staff set their sights on educating motorized trail users about the importance of cleaning their vehicles, the question was, “How?” Vicki Sawicki, NCCISMA program coordinator, and technician Zach Peklo will share some unique approaches to reaching this transient and fast-moving audience and helping them embrace the beauty of clean rides.

Must You Find Another Shrubbery? Understanding the Impacts of Invasive Box Tree Moth in Michigan(recorded 11/07/23, 50 min)
Box tree moth (Cydalima perspectalis) was first detected in Michigan in fall 2022. This invasive pest, native to East Asia, poses a major threat to the boxwood plant, an ornamental shrub that is a valuable part of the U.S. (and Michigan) nursery and horticultural industry. Join Susie Iott, MDARD invasive species program specialist, to learn more about identification, impacts and the state’s response to limit the spread of this invasive pest.

Where the Sidewalk Ends: Choosing Resilient Trees for Tomorrow’s Urban Environments (recorded 10/03/23, 62 min)
Ash, elm and chestnut trees once were as common in cities as the streets that bear their names. Our canopy today is much less diverse due to insects, disease, invasive species and poor species selection. Lawrence Sobson, DNR urban forester and partnership coordinator, will share examples of ideal tree species, how to assess urban sites and provide the information you need ensure the trees you choose can live for the next 100 years.

Why, Oh Why Won’t They Clean, Drain and Dry? Understanding Impediments to Boater and Angler Behavior Change(recorded 8/10/23, 61 min)
Aquatic invasive species continue to be spread by boaters and anglers, primarily by those who travel between waterways without cleaning their equipment. Well, why aren’t people cleaning when we know the risks of spread? Carrie Meier from Daniel Hayes’ lab in the MSU Department of Fisheries and Wildlife interviewed a thousand boaters and anglers to understand just that. Meier will share what was learned about motivations and barriers to equipment cleaning, perceptions of invasive species spread and other interesting results.

Can this moth help save monarchs? Swallow-wort biological control efforts in Michigan (recorded 7/13/23, 61 min)
Invasive swallow-wort vines, kin to native milkweed plants, are disrupting the life cycle of monarch butterflies. Hypena opulenta, a defoliating moth that can only develop on invasive swallow-worts, was discovered in Ukraine and is now approved for field releases in North America. Marianna Szucs from the Department of Entomology at Michigan State University will describe research efforts to establish this moth in Michigan, and the importance of climate match and genetic diversity of the biocontrol agent.

Life’s a beech! Another disease is threatening Michigan’s majestic giants (recorded 6/14/23, 59 min)
Beech leaf disease was first detected in Michigan in 2022, raising concern about the future of the state’s 37 million beech trees, already decimated by beech bark disease. Join Simeon Wright, DNR forest health specialist, to learn about the potential impacts this new disease might have on Michigan’s forests, what’s being done to address it, and how to spot the symptoms of beech leaf disease on your trees.  

To infinity...and beyond (beauty)! Highlighting a statewide ornamental invasive plant outreach program (recorded 5/25/23, 56 min)
Did you know that many invasive plants in natural areas originally arrived as ornamental garden plants? That's why the Go Beyond Beauty program recognizes garden professionals and community members who have committed not to sell or use high-priority ornamental invasive plants. Shelly Stusick, program specialist at Northwest Michigan Invasive Species Network, will provide an overview of the recently expanded Go Beyond Beauty program and highlight the benefits of partnering with local nurseries, garden centers and concerned citizen groups to provide ornamental invasive species education.Go Beyond Beauty program recognizes garden professionals and community members who have committed not to sell or use high-priority ornamental invasive plants. Shelly Stusick, program specialist at Northwest Michigan Invasive Species Network, will provide an overview of the recently expanded Go Beyond Beauty program and highlight the benefits of partnering with local nurseries, garden centers and concerned citizen groups to provide ornamental invasive species education.

Vampires of the Great Lakes: A review of the binational sea lamprey control program (recorded 4/25/23, 61 min)
The sea lamprey is often depicted as the poster child for invasive species in Michigan. With rows of teeth in their circular mouths, these parasitic fish attach themselves to larger sportfish and literally suck out their blood and internal fluids! Join Ross Shaw, communications and policy associate with the Great Lakes Fishery Commission, to learn more about the fascinating history of this species and the multi-faceted control program that keeps their populations in check.

Rowing the boat: The Michigan Invasive Species Program 2022 year in review (recorded 3/21/23, 57 min)
The hearty crew of staff, partners and volunteers that make up the MISP navigated through some rough waters in 2022 with new detections of beech leaf disease and spotted lanternfly in the state, but they also managed to make a lot of headway. The program’s communications coordinator, Joanne Foreman, will highlight response efforts, prevention, outreach and survey work undertaken in 2022 to protect Michigan’s natural resources from the effects of invasive species.

Lobster mobsters: An update on Michigan’s red swamp crayfish response (recorded 2/07/23, 60 min)
Though sometimes called “mini-lobsters,” invasive red swamp crayfish are anything but sweet. Once they show up in an ecosystem, they quickly take over, leaving little or nothing for the locals. Dr. Lucas Nathan, aquatic invasive species coordinator for the Michigan DNR, is intent on turning the tide of infestation in southeast Michigan. Join him to hear about recent advances in research and management of this combative crustacean.

If you can’t beat ‘em, find something that will eat ‘em: Biological control for invasive knotweeds (recorded 1/18/23, 61 min)
When infestations of invasive species become too large to control chemically and mechanically, biological control can be a cost-effective alternative. Marianna Szucs from the Department of Entomology at Michigan State University will provide a brief background on the practice of classical biological control and share her lab’s efforts to establish two host races of the knotweed psyllid (jumping plant lice) that are adapted to different knotweed species.

Older Webinars

Treat me right! Rules, regulations and best practices for controlling aquatic invasive species in Michigan's inland lakes (recorded 11/10/22, 61 min)

There's a lamprey in my classroom! Infusing invasive species education into statewide programs (recorded 10/6/22, 59 min)

Yooper Troopers: Lessons learned controlling Phragmites in Michigan's Upper Peninsula (recorded 9/22/22, 60 min)

Not in my backyard! Managing invasives with help from CISMAs (recorded 7/27/22, 59 min)

Didymo: What you need to know (recorded 6/09/22, 59 min)

Clean it up, drain it out, dry it off: Boating hygiene for the 21st century (recorded 5/12/22, 59 min)

New name, familiar pest: Preparing for Lymantria dispar (formerly known as Gypsy moth) (recorded 4/14/2022, 75 min)

Step aboard Michigan's Clean Boats, Clean Waters grant program (recorded 3/24/2022, 59 min)

The AIS-Team: Conservation officers on a mission to prevent invasive species (recorded 2/16/2022, 62 min)

Dive into the gene pool: Using environmental DNA to detect invasive species (recorded 1/25/2022, 60 min)

Woolly bully: A new invasive adelgid to watch for in Michigan (recorded 11/10/2021, 62 min)

Just do it! Learn invasive plant removal skills at stewardship workdays(recorded 10/21/2021, 60 min)

Fowl play: Protecting Michigan's Wetland Wonders from invasives (recorded 9/15/2021, 61 min)

Hey! What's that in your backyard? An introduction to Michigan's Cooperative Invasive Species Management Areas (recorded 7/27/2021, 54 min)

Big, hungry fish: What's being done to prevent invasive bighead, silver and black carp from entering the Great Lakes (recorded 6/24/2021, 54 min)

Dynamite! And other tools to protect Michigan's state park trees (recorded 5/25/2021, 55 min)

Not in MI waters: Responding to watch list aquatic plants in Michigan (recorded 4/20/2021, 62 min)

Why spotted lanternfly? Assessing the potential threat of invasive species to Michigan (recorded 3/25/2021, 63 min)

Ahoy, Boaters! Resources to help prevent the introduction and spread of AIS (recorded 2/16/2021, 64 min)

Hemlock rescue! Collaborating to stop the spread of hemlock woolly adelgid (recorded 1/22/21, 63 min)

Delicious but dangerous: Responding to the Michigan red swamp crayfish invasion (recorded 11/17/20, 63 min)

Responding to the threat of invasive grass carp in Lake Erie: How science focuses action (recorded 10/22/20, 70 min)