MARQUETTE — Invasive species are a growing problem in Michigan and the U.S. During National Invasive Species Awareness Week (Feb. 24 – 28), Michigan’s Invasive Species Program is joining efforts across all 50 states to encourage everyone to take action to prevent the introduction and spread of harmful plants, animals and diseases.

Michigan’s Invasive Species Program is cooperatively implemented by the Michigan departments of Agriculture and Rural Development; Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy; and Natural Resources.

The program includes a network of 22 cooperative invasive species management areas, or CISMAs, which provide services to all 83 Michigan counties. Universities, nonprofit organizations, volunteers and other state agencies, including the Michigan Department of Transportation, also play a crucial role in preventing, detecting and managing invasive species throughout the state.

In 2024, the MISP surveyed more than 100,000 acres of public and private land for invasive species, including spotted lanternfly, red swamp crayfish and beech leaf disease.

Management actions for invasive phragmites, hemlock woolly adelgid, oak wilt, mile-a-minute weed and other species covered nearly 25,000 acres.