Upper Peninsula lakes invited to join MiCorps “Exotic Aquatic Plant Watch” program for free in 2026
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EmailPublic eyes on the water are critical for early detection of invasive species in northern Michigan lakes.
Lakes across Michigan’s Upper Peninsula have a unique opportunity in 2026 to help protect local waters from invasive aquatic plants by enrolling in the Michigan Clean Water Corps (MiCorps) Exotic Aquatic Plant Watch (EAPW) program.
Aquatic plants are an important part of healthy lake ecosystems, providing habitat for fish and wildlife, stabilizing sediments, and supporting water quality. However, some non-native aquatic plants can become invasive, spreading rapidly and disrupting recreation, native plant communities, and ecological balance. Detecting these species early is one of the most effective ways to prevent costly and difficult management challenges. The MiCorps Exotic Aquatic Plant Watch is specifically designed to help volunteers identify new infestations before they become established.
The EAPW program teaches volunteers to recognize a set of priority invasive aquatic plants and distinguish them from similar native species: Eurasian watermilfoil, curly-leaf pondweed, hydrilla, starry stonewort, and European frog-bit. Participants survey areas of their lake using a sampling rake and record their observations. Monitoring can be conducted from a canoe, kayak, paddleboat or motorboat, and volunteers are encouraged to complete at least one survey between June and September.
Recognizing the importance of early detection in northern Michigan, MiCorps is offering a special opportunity for Upper Peninsula lakes in 2026. Through a partnership with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR), lakes enrolling in the Exotic Aquatic Plant Watch program will receive free enrollment, a free sampling rake, and a free supply kit.
Volunteers can choose to survey their entire lake or focus on a smaller area, such as a boat launch, making participation flexible and accessible for a wide range of lake associations and individual volunteers. Instructional training materials and videos are available through MiCorps to support new participants.
Encouraging early detection activities in the Upper Peninsula is a high priority. Although some UP lakes already have invasive plants present, many do not. The threat of spread remains high, and the EAPW is a great way to take a proactive approach of detecting an infestation when it is still manageable.
Participation from UP lakes will also contribute to a larger statewide effort. Data collected by volunteers help improve understanding of invasive species distribution and support lake management decisions. The information can guide prevention, education, and response efforts while building local stewardship and awareness of aquatic invasive species.
Upper Peninsula lake residents, associations, and other interested volunteers are encouraged to enroll by August 31, 2026. Those interested in participating or learning more can contact MiCorps at MiCorps@msu.edu.
With free enrollment and equipment available in 2026, this is an excellent opportunity for UP communities to strengthen protection of their lakes and contribute to the early detection of invasive aquatic plants across Michigan.
Learn more about MiCorps
The Michigan Clean Water Corps (MiCorps) is a statewide volunteer water quality monitoring program established by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) to engage citizens in monitoring and understanding Michigan’s water resources. MiCorps is administered by Michigan State University Extension under the direction of EGLE and in partnership with the Huron River Watershed Council and the Michigan Lakes and Streams Association.
