Invasive species are a growing challenge on our landscapes and native ecosystems. What is considered invasive? Any species that would have not have been found in a specific area pre-European arrival (aka, has not evolved in that habitat) and has the ability to create major disruptions in native ecosystems. There are many non-native species (e.g. lavendar, Norway spruce trees, etc) that although were introduced, do not take over an ecosystem and threaten the survival of other species. An invasive species can take over a native habitat and push out existing species. For example, phragmities will colonize a wetland area and choke out every other species, leaving a thick blanket and completely altering the landscape.

Each invasive species requires a different approach. A lot of damage can be done by using the wrong removal method. For example, cutting or mowing spurs additional growth in japanese knotweed. Knotweed must be injected with herbicide during flowering period between August-September.

Need more species specific information? Review our guides here.
Report Invasive Species 
The Midwest Invasive Species Information Network (MISIN) is a regional effort to develop and provide early detection and response resources for invasive species.
Invasive Species Injector now available for rent! 
​The injector is used for treating Japanese, Bohemian, giant knotweeds, invasive phragmites. Rental is free with a $50 refundable deposit is required at pick up. Injector is available on a first come first serve basis. Contact Megan to reserve and arrange pick-up.

How does this work? Check out this video by: King County DNRP
 Jackson, Lenawee and Washtenaw County Cooperative Invasive Species Management Area​ (CISMA)
In order to address invasive species across in the region, a collaborative group of stakeholders from the Jackson, Lenawee and Washtenaw Counties applied for, and received a grant to establish the "Jackson, Lenawee and Washtenaw Cooperative Invasive Species Management Areas (JLW CISMA)". The JLW CISMA wants to prevent, detect, eradicate and control invasive species in the area, create a strategic plan for reducing the threat of invasive species and to provide outreach and educational opportunities for local citizens and stakeholder groups . Currently, the JLW CISMA is focusing their efforts on education and outreach. The organization would also like to coordinate and support partner efforts to survey and develop early detection, response and a strategic eradication plan. If you have any questions or would like more information, please contact the JLW CISMA coordinator, Dr. Shikha Singh at Ph: 517-395-2089, shikha.singh@macd.org
Priority Species

As part of our efforts in the JLW CISMA, we are working to identify invasive species of concern in our county. If you have identified a species of concern, please contact us at megan.deleeuw@macd.org or 734-718-5506. You may also fill out a report directly to the State of Michigan here.

A few species that have been identified:

-Japanese Stiltgrass
-Gypsy Moths
-Purple Loosestrife
-Giant Hogweed
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Washtenaw County Conservation District                               Copyright 2018