Invasive algae

• Rock Snot on the Radar: Tracking Didymo in Michigan Rivers (April 15th, 2026)
  • What’s happening with didymo in Michigan waters? Following detections in four Lower Peninsula coldwater rivers from 2021 to 2024, has didymo fallen off the radar? This webinar will provide an update on didymo status and trends based on survey data from across the state and discuss the relationship between water chemistry and didymo blooms. Learn about Trout Unlimited’s community science program and how you can get involved in expanding didymo monitoring efforts. MDARD's Amber Niels will share an inside look at how plant and pest quarantines are created, why they matter and when they change. This includes information on new and rescinded quarantines and what these rules mean for gardeners, growers and anyone who loves Michigan’s natural resources.
• Didymo: What you need to know (June 9, 2022)
  • The December 2021 discovery of didymo, an aquatic nuisance algae species, in Michigan's Upper Manistee River is a cause for concern for all river and stream users. Dr. Ashley Moerke of Lake Superior State University will provide an overview of didymo's ecology, potential impacts on cold water organisms, and what LSSU researchers are doing to to better understand spread, impacts and potential triggers of didymo nuisance blooms. Moerke will be joined by staff from the Departments of Natural Resources and Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy to answer questions and discuss techniques to help prevent further spread.

Invasive crustaceans

• Genes on the move: Understanding red swamp crayfish spread in southeastern Michigan (September 12, 2024)
  • Invasive red swamp crayfish are found in small ponds and drainages in southeastern Michigan, in areas with a high potential for spread to nearby bodies of water. Dr. Jared Homola of the USGS Wisconsin Cooperative Fishery Research Unit will discuss a project in collaboration with Michigan State University and the Michigan DNR using cutting-edge genetic tools to identify the biological and environmental factors that could lead to the crayfish's spread. Understanding these factors is helping inform development of strategies to assess the risks posed by red swamp crayfish and ultimately control or eradicate them in Michigan.
• Lobster mobsters: An update on Michigan’s red swamp crayfish response (February 7, 2023)
• Delicious but dangerous: Responding to the Michigan red swamp crayfish invasion (November 17, 2020)
  • The newest crayfish invader in Michigan draws a spectrum of opinions. Although many associate red swamp crayfish with crawfish boils, they are also one of the world's most widespread invasive crayfish species and can have a range of negative impacts. Join us to learn about the risks red swamp crayfish pose, the ongoing response efforts in Michigan and the research underway to improve control efforts. Presenters Dr. Lucas Nathan, aquatic invasive species coordinator for the Michigan DNR, and Dr. Brian Roth, associate professor at Michigan State University will share their field experience and answer questions.

Invasive diseases

• Habitat Protectors: New Team Targets Invasive Species on State Lands (February 4, 2026)
  • In 2024, Michigan’s Invasive Species Program began assembling a team to focus on emerging populations of new invasive species and tree diseases on state lands. Today, four foresters and two wildlife biologists are hard at work detecting and managing watch list and high priority invasive species on 4.6 million acres of state forests, parks, recreation areas and game and wildlife areas. Join Michigan’s Invasive Species Response Team forester Gwen Grochowski and wildlife biologist Natalie Bekins to find out how their team’s efforts to detect and manage invasives are protecting critical habitats in your favorite outdoor places.
• They’ll need that hug: How climate change is increasing native and invasive threats to Michigan’s trees (August 27, 2025)
  • Invasive insects and diseases, including hemlock woolly adelgid, beech bark disease 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.
• Getting down to the nitty gritty: Oak wilt spread and vector behavior research in Michigan (October 29, 2024)
  • 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. 
• Life’s a beech! Another disease is threatening Michigan’s majestic giants (June 14, 2023)

Invasive fish

• Vampires of the Great Lakes: A review of the binational sea lamprey control program (April 25, 2023)
• There's a lamprey in my classroom! Infusing invasive species education into statewide programs (October 6 2022)
  • The Department of Natural Resources' education team connects Michiganders to the outdoors in many ways - providing a natural network for invasive species information. From visitor centers and campground programs to live virtual classroom sessions, DNR educators create programs that connect families and students with the outdoors. Whether you're an educator, a parent or someone who enjoys learning, Tracy Page, DNR aquatic education coordinator, will explain how to take advantage of these educational programs as you travel the state, or even in your own home or classroom.
• Big, hungry fish: What's being done to prevent invasive bighead, silver and black carp from entering the Great Lakes (June 24, 2021)
  • Silver carp jumping into boats. Fishing nets full of bighead carp. Could this be the fate of the Great Lakes? Currently, there is no evidence of any live bighead, silver, or black carp, commonly called Asian carp, in the Great Lakes. Michigan continues to play an active role in regional collaboration to protect the Great Lakes from this potential invasion. DNR Senior Water Policy Advisor Tammy Newcomb will explain the threat posed by these invasive fish, current monitoring and surveillance programs, and Michigan's partnership with Illinois and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to provide a long-term solution to protect the Great Lakes.
• Responding to the threat of invasive grass carp in Lake Erie: How science focuses action (October 22, 2020)
  • You've probably heard of the invasive bighead carp and silver carp outside of Chicago, but did you know there's already an invasive carp species in the Great Lakes? Get the real story about grass carp in Lake Erie and the multi-jurisdictional response efforts underway to locate and remove them. We will discuss how fishery biologists make strategic decisions and how they implement those decisions to effectively control grass carp. The speakers for this inaugural webinar are Dr. John Dettmers, director of fisheries management at the Great Lakes Fishery Commission, and Dr. Kelly Robinson, assistant professor at Michigan State University.

General invasives information and
sessions covering multiple invasive species

• Protecting a National Treasure: Managing Invasive Species in Critical Dune Areas (July 22, 2026)
  • Michigan’s coastal dune system is a natural wonder. Spanning nearly 300 miles of Lake Michigan and Lake Superior shoreline, it contains landforms, vegetation and climate found nowhere else on the planet. The Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy’s Critical Dune Area Program works to protect the diversity, quality and function of Michigan’s dunes from many threats, including invasive species. Join EGLE’s Zach Chamberlin to learn about the types of invasive species found in dune systems, their impacts, and how EGLE works to protect dunes from invasive species through the Critical Dune Area permitting program.
• Kowabdanawa odë kė: Preventing and Preparing for Invasive Species on Pokagon Lands (June 17th, 2026)
  • The emerald ash borer decimated the ash population across the state. For the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians in Southwest Michigan, this meant the loss of mature black ash trees, culturally important for traditional basket making. Since then, many new invasive species have emerged that could cause harm to culturally significant trees in the tribe’s service area in southwest Michigan and northern Indiana. Join Vic Bogosian, Natural Resources Manager for the Pokagon Band's Kowabdanawa odë kė ('They watch over this land') to learn how they are taking a proactive approach, including education, tree surveys and response planning, to prepare for Asian longhorned beetle, spotted lanternfly, and beech leaf disease and beech bark disease.
• Quarantines Demystified: Keeping Michigan Green and Pest-Free (May 14, 2026)
  • Ever wonder why certain plants or pests trigger quarantines in Michigan? Join Amber Neils, MDARD quarantine compliance and export specialist, for an inside look at how quarantines are created, why they matter, and when they change. She will cover recent updates including new quarantines and rescissions and explain what these rules mean for gardeners, growers and anyone who loves Michigan’s natural resources. Bring your questions and learn more about how quarantines help protect our state’s agriculture and environment!
• “Hold the invasives, please!” Certified Invasive-free Products are Coming to Michigan (October 30, 2025)
  • Have you’ve ever landscaped with “clean” fill or gravel and ended up with a weed patch, or purchased mulch that took on a life of its own? If so, you might be interested in Michigan’s new voluntary, invasive-free certification program. Join Vicki Sawicki, program coordinator with the Department of Natural Resources, to learn how she’s building relationships with producers of gravel, fill, mulch, compost and firewood who want to provide clean options for their customers. Invasive plants, insects and even tree diseases can be moved to new places on firewood and landscape materials. Learn more about when and where you can find certified products and how purchasing these can ensure that what you bring home is clean and invasive-free.
• Something Strange in Your Neighborhood? Who Ya Gonna Call? (September 23, 2025)
  • Call your local invasives-busters, of course! Michigan’s cooperative invasive species management areas are here for you, providing guidance and assistance in busting invasive species across the state. Whether it’s harmful plants in a local bird sanctuary, wild parsnip along the North Country Trail or aggressive flowers in a backyard garden, CISMAs are here to help! Join Shikha Singh of Jackson, Lenawee and Washtenaw CISMA, Zach Peklo of North Country CISMA and Evan Chalmers of Three Shores CISMA to hear about managing invasive species in important places and how these efforts build valuable relationships within communities. You’ll learn who to call when you need invasive species help, and you might even get to see their cool backpack sprayers!
• Don’t let it loose! Protecting Michigan’s waterways from pesky pets and plants (January 14, 2025)
  • 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.
• Invading Classrooms: Empowering Students to Take Action on Invasive Species (June 25, 2024)
  • 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.
• I Wash My Bottom, Do You? Engaging the Boating Industry in AIS Prevention (March 21, 2024)
  • 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.
• Why, Oh Why Won’t They Clean, Drain and Dry? Understanding Impediments to Boater and Angler Behavior Change (August 10, 2023)
• Rowing the boat: The Michigan Invasive Species Program 2022 year in review (March 21, 2023)
• Treat me right! Rules, regulations and best practices for controlling aquatic invasive species in Michigan's inland lakes (November 10, 2022)
  • Anyone who has wondered about what can (or can't) be done about aquatic invasive species is encouraged to join Eric Calabro, Environmental Quality Analyst with the Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy to learn more about state regulations and options for physical and mechanical AIS control. Find out when a permit is needed, what to consider when choosing a control method, and best management practices to ensure a safe and effective treatment.
• Clean it up, drain it out, dry it off: Boating hygiene for the 21st century (May 12, 2022)
  • Protecting Michigan's waters from aquatic invasive species is as simple as Clean, Drain, Dry - but just how easy is it? Watch Kelsey Bockelman from Michigan State University Extension and Kevin Walters from Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy provide live demonstrations of each step in the process. The team will share watercraft decontamination essentials using basic tools like towels and brushes and display the features and operation of a trailer-mounted mobile boat washing system.
• The AIS-Team: Conservation officers on a mission to prevent invasive species (February 16, 2022)
  • Whether it's tracking invasive species imports or making sure boaters "Clean, Drain and Dry," conservation officers play a key role in Michigan's Invasive Species Program. Corporal Nick Torsky of the Department of Natural Resources Law Enforcement Division's Great Lakes Enforcement Unit will discuss the unit's role in the battle against aquatic invasive species. Join Corporal Torsky to learn more about enforcement of boating and bait-related regulations, oversight of Michigan's organisms-in-trade, interagency cooperation across the Great Lakes Basin, and some recent investigations that highlight the Department's enforcement efforts.
• Dive into the gene pool: Using environmental DNA to detect invasive species (January 25, 2022)
  • How can you find an aquatic invasive species that you can't see? You sample the water where it might be and search for its DNA instead! Join Nick Frohnauer of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Kim Scribner and John Robinson from Michigan State University to learn about this fascinating technique that researchers are using to detect invasive carp and other aquatic invasive species before they become established in the Great Lakes region.
• Fowl play: Protecting Michigan's Wetland Wonders from invasives (September 15, 2021)
  • Important habitats like Michigan's managed waterfowl hunt areas are high priorities for invasive species management. Whether you're a hunter, a bird watcher, or just get egg-cited about ducks and geese, you will be amazed by the techniques used to manage and restore some of Michigan's prime waterfowl areas. Join DNR wildlife biologists Jeremiah Heise and Zach Cooley as they share their experiences managing Nayanquing Point State Wildlife Area and Pointe Mouillee State Game Area in Southeast Michigan.
• Hey! What's that in your backyard? An introduction to Michigan's Cooperative Invasive Species Management Areas (July 27, 2021)
  • Wouldn't it be great if there were a local resource you could go to for help with invasive species on your property? Spoiler alert: there is! Michigan is home to 22 Cooperative Invasive Species Management Areas, or CISMAs, that are on the front line for prevention, detection, and control of invasive infestations. Katie Grzesiak, Nick Cassel, and Fallon Chabala, representatives from the Michigan Invasive Species Coalition, will discuss what a CISMA is, how they can help with management of invasives on your property, and the benefits of partnering with your local CISMA.
• Ahoy, Boaters! Resources to help prevent the introduction and spread of AIS (February 16, 2021)
  • Recreational boating, paddling and water sports are extremely popular in Michigan, but they also can introduce and spread aquatic invasive species in Michigan's lakes, rivers and streams. Fortunately, the Clean Boats, Clean Waters and MI Paddle Stewards programs are here to help. With free classes, signage, outreach materials and grants, both programs serve as resources for boaters, recreational groups, local communities and property owners working to keep Michigan's waters free from invasive species. Presenters Paige Filice, Natural Resources Educator at Michigan State University Extension, and Mary Bohling, Extension Educator at Michigan Sea Grant, will share resources and information about their programs and answer questions.

Invasive insects

• Spotting the Spotted Lanternfly: What to Know and What You Can Do (July 29, 2025)
  • Invasive spotted lanternfly, first detected in Pennsylvania in 2014, is now present in at least 18 eastern U.S. states. In Michigan, localized spotted lanternfly infestations in four southeastern counties are expected to build and spread, especially in areas where invasive tree of heaven, the insect’s preferred host, occurs. Deborah McCullough, professor of forest entomology at Michigan State University, will cover spotted lanternfly’s life stages, tree of heaven identification and spotted lanternfly’s impacts on trees and people. Options for managing spotted lanternfly, if or when it arrives in your neighborhood, will be included.
• Holiday Hitchhikers: Unpacking Pests in Christmas Trees (November 12, 2025)
  • Every holiday season, millions of Christmas trees are cut and shipped around the country to become centerpieces for family celebrations – but some come with more than just festive cheer. Spongy moth and balsam woolly adelgid are two invasive Christmas tree pests on the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development’s naughty list. MDARD’s Amber Neils and Lindsay Patrick will discuss the status of these two insects in Michigan, their biology, the risks they pose, and how the department’s Christmas Tree Inspection and Certification Program helps Michigan tree farms spread holiday cheer without the risk of spreading invasive species.
• See it. Squish it. Report it. What you need to know about invasive spotted lanternfly (July 17, 2024)
  • 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.”
• Must You Find Another Shrubbery? Understanding the Impacts of Invasive Box Tree Moth in Michigan (November 7, 2023)
• Can this moth help save monarchs? Swallow-wort biological control efforts in Michigan (July 13, 2023)
• New name, familiar pest: Preparing for Lymantria dispar (formerly known as Gypsy moth) (April 12, 2022)
  • Join an expert panel to explore how spongy moth (Lymantria dispar) (formerly Gypsy moth) became a naturalized resident in Michigan's forests. Dr. Deborah McCullough from Michigan State University, Dr. Steven Katovich of the USDA Forest Service, Susie Lott of MDARD and DNR's James Wieferich will cover the unusual history of this pest in the United States and here in Michigan, and what you can do to reduce some of the unpleasant impacts of an outbreak. You'll learn tips to help stressed trees recover from defoliation and options to help reduce the nuisance around your home.
• Woolly bully: A new invasive adelgid to watch for in Michigan (November 10, 2021)
  • Since invasive balsam woolly adelgids (Adelges piceae) arrived in North America in the early 20th century, the tiny insects have killed countless fir trees in the northeast, west and southeast. In August, the invasive insect was detected in Michigan. Since then, the Michigan departments of Agriculture and Rural Development and Natural Resources have been working to protect native balsam firs and popular Fraser and concolor firs, mainstays of the state's Christmas tree industry. Join MDARD's Robert Miller to learn about identification, potential environmental threats and the state's efforts to eradicate balsam woolly adelgid.
• Why spotted lanternfly? Assessing the potential threat of invasive species to Michigan (March 25, 2021)
  • Spotted lanternfly was added to Michigan's invasive species watch list in 2018. What makes this colorful insect a threat to our state? What can be done to prevent it? Learn how local and national collaboration helps Michigan's Invasive Species Program determine which species are real threats and then prepare for their potential arrival. Hear from presenter Rob Miller, an invasive species prevention and response specialist for the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development who is leading Michigan's spotted lanternfly response.
• Hemlock rescue! Collaborating to stop the spread of hemlock woolly adelgid (January 22, 2021)
  • Hemlock woolly adelgid has killed hundreds of thousands of hemlock trees in eastern states, including significant areas in the Appalachian and Great Smoky mountains. When infestations began spreading in West Michigan, a team of technicians went to work to "hold the line" through rigorous survey and treatment of infested trees in an effort to save Michigan's 170 million eastern hemlocks from the same fate. Join Drew Rayner, coordinator of the West Michigan Cooperative Invasive Species Management Area, to learn how federal, state and local resources are coming together to save Michigan's hemlock resource, one tree at a time.

Invasive mollusks

• In a Stranglehold: Can We Prevent Invasive Mussels from Muscling in on Native Populations? (January 14, 2026)
  • Invasive mussels not only foul docks and props and cut your feet, they also attach to native mussels, preventing movement, feeding and reproduction. In essence, zebra mussels and quagga mussels are smothering Michigan’s native mussels. Michael Hillary, fisheries biologist for the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, with support from the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative, is seeking ways to protect the small, fragile populations of our native filter feeders. Join him to discover what he’s learned working with the Michigan Natural Features Inventory to sift through decades of data, locate healthy native mussel populations and field test management strategies to protect them.

Invasive plants

Aquatic (water) invasive plants

• New Game, New Game Plan: Building Teams to Tackle Watch List Invasive Plants (September 2, 2026)
  • Anyone who has worked to manage invasive plants like garlic mustard or autumn olive knows they are playing the long game. When new invasive plants, like those on Michigan’s Watch List, arrive in our state, they don’t come with a playbook. Determining how to effectively contain and control, or even where to look for emerging populations of watch list plants requires teamwork. Join Katie Grzesiak and Drew Rayner of the Michigan Department of Natural Resources to learn how Michigan’s Invasive Species Program is using federal grant funds to develop response plans and support local management of mile-a-minute weed, stiltgrass, lesser celandine, and other invasive plants.
• Digging in: Michigan’s Unconventional Response to Hydrilla (June 25, 2025)
  • Hydrilla is known as one of the most difficult aquatic invasive plants to control. When it was found for the first time in Michigan in September 2023, the Michigan Invasive Species Program chose to take decisive action to eradicate it. Project lead Billy Keiper of EGLE’s Water Resources Division will walk through the response effort from detection to the recent excavation of two private ponds. Learn why and how this extraordinary effort was undertaken and the deliberation, planning and cooperation that made it possible.
• What Lies Beneath: Detecting Invasive Plants in Michigan Lakes (May 28, 2025)
  • Often, invasive aquatic plants exist unseen, lurking and spreading below the waterline until they’ve grown into a major problem. Fortunately, a trained eye can find these invaders before they wreak havoc. That’s where the MiCorps Cooperative Lakes Monitoring Program’s Exotic Aquatic Plant Watch comes in! Join Erick Elgin and Jo Latimore from Michigan State University Extension as they reveal the training and tools available to help volunteers detect and track these underwater invaders. Hear firsthand from dedicated volunteers who have made surprising discoveries in the lakes they cherish. Whether you’re a seasoned lake steward or just getting started, this webinar will inspire you to take a closer look beneath the surface!
• A Herculean Task: Containing the First Hydrilla Infestation in Michigan (May 21, 2024)
  • 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.
• What’s the damage? Ecology and Effects of Invasive European Frog-bit in the St. Marys River (February 7, 2024)
  • 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.
• Not in MI waters: Responding to watch list aquatic plants in Michigan (April 20, 2021)

Terrestrial (land) invasive plants

• Old Data, New Insights: Tracking Invasive Plant Trends in Michigan’s State Parks (March 25th, 2026)
  • Not too long ago, collecting field data involved marking paper maps and jotting notes on a clipboard, but technology has rapidly transformed the collection, visualization and analysis of invasive species data. Mike Hindy, Greg Norwood and Emily Leslie of the Michigan Department of Natural Resources will share how the Parks and Recreation Division is translating legacy point data collections to uncover trends in invasive species management across Michigan’s state parks. Are the infestations increasing, decreasing or remaining unchanged? Find out when you join them to learn about the challenges, considerations and future directions of Geographic Information Systems – GIS – in invasive species management.
• Now you see me, now you don’t! The trick of finding and managing invasive lesser celandine (March 27, 2025)
  • 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.
• Road trippin’: How MDOT manages Michigan’s highways (February 25, 2025)
  • 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.
• Beauty or beast? Tackling invasive Himalayan balsam in the Upper Peninsula (November 20, 2024)
  • 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.
• Untangling the Knot: Identifying Effective Detection and Treatment Regimes for Invasive Knotweeds (April 11, 2024)
  • 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.
• Dirt Never Hurt, but Invasive Species Do – Engaging ORVers to Stop Invasive Spread (January 23, 2024)
  • 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.
• Where the Sidewalk Ends: Choosing Resilient Trees for Tomorrow’s Urban Environments (October 3, 2023)
• To infinity...and beyond (beauty)! Highlighting a statewide ornamental invasive plant outreach program (May 25, 2023)
  
• If you can’t beat ‘em, find something that will eat ‘em: Biological control for invasive knotweeds (January 18, 2023)
• Yooper Troopers: Lessons learned controlling Phragmites in Michigan's Upper Peninsula (September 22, 2022)
• Not in my backyard! Managing invasives with help from CISMAs (July 27, 2022)
• Just do it! Learn invasive plant removal skills at stewardship workdays (October 21, 2021)
• Dynamite! And other tools to protect Michigan's state park trees (May 25, 2021)