Certifying Landscape Products as Invasive-Free
Invasive species can spread to new areas when transported in landscaping materials. Seeds, plant fragments and other living organisms can hitch a ride in gravel, fill, mulch and compost, allowing invasive species to establish in new locations.
Invasive species have been unintentionally introduced to new areas through activities such as road grading and mulch or compost deliveries. Examples of species that can be transported in landscaping materials include Phragmites, knotweed, garlic mustard, spotted knapweed, jumping worms and Asian needle ants.
These species can pose risks to the environment, human health and property. Jumping worms can alter soil structure, making it difficult for plants to grow. Phragmites and knotweed can reduce curb appeal and damage infrastructure, including paved surfaces and building foundations. Asian needle ants, which are not known to be established in Michigan, can also pose a health risk because their stings may cause allergic reactions.
Preventing the spread of invasive species helps protect Michigan’s natural resources, communities and property values. Producers of gravel, fill, mulch and compost can help by carefully selecting sourcing locations and managing storage and production areas to reduce the risk of contamination by invasive species.
Michigan is developing a voluntary Invasive-Free Certification Program for these landscaping products. Under the proposed program, participating producers would allow annual inspections of their production facilities to verify that targeted invasive species that could be transported in their products are not present.
Certification would give consumers a clear way to identify products from participating producers who take steps to prevent the spread of invasive species. It would also help businesses demonstrate their commitment to environmental stewardship and responsible product handling.
Learn about Michigan’s Invasive-Free Firewood Certification Program.