Invasive Species Networks Awarded $120k in State Support

Huron Pines’ two Invasive Species Networks (ISNs) have received $60,000 each in state grant funding to expand detection, prevention and control efforts for invasive plant species. This is accomplished through strategic on-the-ground surveys, plant removals on public and private lands and waterways, and community outreach and engagement efforts.

Nick Theisen, Water Program Technician with Huron Pines, holds a rake loaded with invasive European frog-bit pulled from the waters of Alpena Wildlife Sanctuary in 2021.

Announced March 1, the grants are part of a $3.6 million investment statewide through the Michigan Invasive Species Grant Program facilitated by the Michigan departments of Agriculture and Rural Development; Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy; and Natural Resources. The program aims to prevent the introduction of new invasive species, strengthen statewide detection and response, and manage invasive species that are already widely established.

In the press: Huron Pines Receives $61k to Combat Invasive Species

Invasive species are those which are not native to an area and cause harm to the economy, environment or human health and alter native ecosystems, prevent recreational access and impact property values. In Northeast Lower Michigan, these include aquatic plants like European frog-bit and phragmites, and upland shrubs like autumn olive and Japanese barberry, among others.

Huron Pines leads two ISNs: Huron Coastal Invasive Species Network covering five counties along the northern Lake Huron coast; and Huron Heartland Invasive Species Network which serves six interior counties in Northeast Lower Michigan. Each is a partnership of local, state and federal organizations working together with individuals, groups and businesses to address invasive species concerns across jurisdictions.

Stewardship Program Coordinator Shelby Bauer discusses invasive species with students of Alcona Community Schools who manage their school forest.

“This funding not only supports on-the-ground management and prevention of invasive species that our stewardship team carries out across the area, it also supports direct education and outreach in the communities we serve,” said Shelby Bauer, Stewardship Program Coordinator with Huron Pines. “Through events and volunteer opportunities, we show people how to identify and report invasive species and how to clean their outdoor gear to prevent further spread. The more we can connect with our communities, the better protected our favorite wild places will be for the future.”

Learn more about Huron Pines’ invasive species program at huronpines.org/invasives.