Michigan is home to many lakes but the state can also be home to many invasive species.
If you're planning on enjoying Pure Michigan this summer, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources is asking you be on the lookout for non-native plants and animals.
Invasive species can harm the environment, the economy, or even human health and can be easily transferred by people and equipment.
Several species currently threaten our state, but one species DNR officials are asking you watch out for is the red swamp crayfish.
The red swamp crayfish is a red small lobster looking crayfish with a black stripe on its belly. Primarily the crayfish is found in the southwest part of the state.
Many people may use the crayfish as bait and may not know it is an invasive species.
Michigan DNR officials also urge you be on the lookout for the parrot feather,
“(The parrot feather) is an aquatic plant which it grows below and above the surface,” said Joeanne Foreman, Invasive Species Communications Coordinator at the Michigan DNR. “It has really soft, fine feathery leaves."
It is against the law in Michigan to take watercraft to another lake with weeds attached to it. Boaters must first clean, drain, and dry the watercraft and equipment beforehand.
When it comes to land there are things you should check if you go hiking or camping in the woods.
"Clean your gear, clean your boots, and check your pets,” said Foreman. “Check your car if you've parked in the weeds and make sure you're knocking off any debris or seeds before traveling to your next location.”
The Michigan DNRhas a list of invasive species in the state, along with the Midwest Invasive Species Information Networkfrom Michigan State University.
If you do find an invasive species, it is important to report it. Click here to make a report through the Midwest Invasive Species Information Network.
The network also has a smartphone app available for download in the iTunes Storeand Google Play Store.
