Local Efforts
Invasive plants are a problem in our natural areas as well as in our own backyards. These species spread and crowd out our native plants and negatively impact our native ecosystems. Some of these invasive plants are Early Detection species that are considered high priority and grant funds may be available to assist with their treatment. The West MI Conservation Network has formed Strike Teams.
These teams are available for invasive plant treatment through grant dollars associated with the West Michigan Cooperative Invasive Species Management Area (CISMA).
For more information:
Please contact the West Michigan CISMA Coordinator, Natalie Bekins, at 616.414.2055 or email natalie.bekins@macd.org.
Regional Efforts
Much of the success in managing invasive species in the environment is locating them early and developing a plan of response. In West Michigan, the Midwest Invasive Species Information Network (MISIN) is at the forefront of such Early Detection/Rapid Response (EDRR) efforts through its web site and related app.
The effort is being led by researchers with the Michigan State University Department of Entomology laboratory for Applied Spatial Ecology and Technical Services in conjunction with a growing consortium of supporting partners. MISIN’s goal is to assist both experts and citizen scientists in the detection and identification of invasive species in support of successful management.
The MISIN smartphone app provides a mobile solution for the capture of invasive species field observation data. You can play an important role in the early detection and rapid response to new invasive threats in your area by contributing invasive species observations to the MISIN database.
- Identify and report 300+ invasive plant and animal species
- Capture and submit species observations from the field
- Include images taken in the field with your observation
- Browse images and species information on the top Midwest invaders
West Michigan Conservation Network 