Aquatic Invasive Species

Most plants and animals found in inland lakes are natural parts of a diverse and healthy ecosystem.  Unfortunately, there are a few species that can become problematic when introduced to a lake, threatening lake health by becoming overly abundant, crowding out other species, and having often unpredictable environmental impacts.  Because of the threat that these invasive species pose to our inland lakes, it is important that we know how to identify them, work to prevent their introduction into lakes where they are not currently found, and understand the available management options if they are found in a lake

AIS Management Programs Serving Michigan

Several years ago, the Partnership compiled a comprehensive Survey of the Aquatic Invasive Species Management Programs Serving Michigan.  These programs range from local to federal in scope.  Scott Brown, then Executive Director of Michigan Lake and Stream Associations, was the main author of this report for the Partnership.

Resources

A Michigan Boater’s Guide to Selected Invasive Aquatic Plants - This 28-page booklet from Michigan State University Extension provides photographs and information about aquatic nuisance plants. Available for free download or hard copy purchase.

Exotic Aquatic Plant Watch - Michigan’s volunteer aquatic invasive plant monitoring program; part of the MiCorps Cooperative Lakes Monitoring Program. Volunteers are trained to survey inland lakes for the presence of invasive plants. The program is open to all interested volunteers. 

Michigan Invasive Species Program - Includes a wealth of current information from the State of Michigan on invasive species in Michigan’s waters.  The Aquatic Nuisance Species Control page describes control methods, including permit requirements.

Tip of the Mitt Watershed Council - Aquatic Invasive Species- This northern Michigan watershed council maintains an excellent resource for invasive species identification.

Midwest Invasive Species Information Network (MISIN) - A regional effort to develop and provide an early detection and rapid response resource for invasive species. Visitors to the site can report sightings, view reports, and complete species identification training modules.  

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency - Invasive Species- The federal perspective on aquatic and terrestrial invasive species. Excellent information on legislation dealing with invasive species, and general background information.

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