Michigan launches invasive species website

Michigan recently launched the Michigan Invasive Species website to serve as a resource for residents looking to identify or manage plants, insects and animals considered invasive in the state.

The site, managed by the Michigan Departments of Natural Resources, Environmental Quality and Agriculture and Rural Development — collectively known as the “Quality of Life” agencies — compiles each agency’s resources to make them more user friendly.

“Preventing invasive species is everyone’s responsibility,” Quality of Life Departments Invasive Species Communications Coordinator Joanne Foreman said. “Human activity is the primary means by which invasive species are moved from place to place. This new website offers simple steps everyone can take, like removing seeds and mud from shoes, gear and pets, to assure that invasive ‘hitchhikers’ don’t travel with you.”

The website allows users to identify invasive species through photos and descriptions and educates them on the state and federal laws pertaining to them. It also provides resources, such as posters, brochures, videos and guidebooks, and links to volunteer and local government programs.

“The Michigan Invasive Species website features best management practices, as well as information on obtaining necessary permits for managing species in certain circumstances,” Foreman said.