In 2017, the Benzie Conservation District received Michigan Invasive Species Grant Program funds to commence a program focused on aquatic invasive species (AIS) pathways. The project focuses on providing educational boat wash events at public boat launches across four northern counties - Benzie, Grand Traverse, Leelanau, and Manistee. Additionally, periodic lake surveys are completed throughout the region to identify invasive species and to test the health of that body of water.
AIS are unknown by many water recreation enthusiasts and if precautions are not taken, we run the risk of spreading harmful species from one body of water to another. This region boasts some of the country's most beautiful fresh water resources, and we are happy to work towards improved public awareness of the very real threat of AIS. Follow us on social media for updates on program happenings, partner news, and the most recent information on Michigan's aquatic invasive species.
Program and AIS NewsNew Invasive Species Coloring Pages Available to Download
January 24, 2022 Two new coloring pages are available to download for free. Simply click on one of the below images to see the full-size PDF and print. Use these pages to teach about the importance of a diverse habitat, free from invasive species!
Invasive Didymo, or 'Rock Snot', Found in Kalkaska County
December 10, 2021 The Michigan departments of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy and Natural Resources confirmed a report of didymo, a nuisance freshwater alga, in a stretch of the Upper Manistee River in Kalkaska County. Also known as rock snot despite its coarse, woolly texture, didymo can grow into thick mats that cover the river bottom. The Manistee River finding marks the first detection of didymo blooms in the Lower Peninsula. In 2015, extensive mats of didymo were found on the Michigan side of the St. Marys River near Sault Ste. Marie in the Upper Peninsula. Click here to read the entire press release. |
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The Aquatic Invasive Species Pathways Program was funded in part with funds from the Michigan Invasive Species Grant Program through the Departments of Natural Resources; Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy; and Agriculture and Rural Development. Also, grants from the Huron-Manistee National Forest as well as Benzie County township contributions: Almira, Blaine, Benzonia, Crystal Lake, Homestead and Lake have made aspects of this program possible.