News

Plant identification? There’s an app for that—actually several!

Published on March 26, 2024
2024 update, Amaranth species plus trees/shrubs added! Plant identification apps for smart phones have seen significant improvements over the past several years, offering the opportunity to take a photo and get an instant identification in many cases.
MSU Extension educator Meaghan Gass named Informal Science Teacher of the Year by Michigan Science Teachers Association

Published on March 26, 2024
Serving in the Saginaw Bay region, Gass focuses on Great Lakes literacy, community resilience, and place-based and natural resources education.
When will the mayflies arrive?

Published on March 11, 2024
Temperature, wind and other environmental factors control the timing and number of mayflies that reach the shores of Lake Erie and Lake St. Clair.
Soak up the rain with a rain garden

Published on March 5, 2024
Beautify your yard and neighborhood while helping the environment with a rain garden.
What makes skunks such scent-sensational neighbors?

Published on March 5, 2024
The MSU Department of Fisheries and Wildlife is asking the public to report sightings of the striped skunk, an overlooked and under-studied member of the animal kingdom.
Project GREEEN advancing research on harmful plant insects

Published on February 28, 2024
MSU researchers use Project GREEEN funding to mitigate damage from some of the most destructive insects in Michigan agriculture.
Foes or food? Foraging for Great Lakes invasive species

Published on February 23, 2024
Many invasive species, from garlic mustard to grass carp, were deliberately introduced to the United States because they were once a valuable food source.
The less traveled pathways for species introduction to the Great Lakes

Published on February 23, 2024
While ballast water has been a major way species have entered the Great Lakes, it hasn't been the only way.
Balancing act: A policy success story in the Great Lakes

Published on February 23, 2024
Implementing the 'swish and spit' method successfully reduced the risk of AIS introductions from transoceanic ballast water.
The cloning crayfish conundrum: A threat to the Great Lakes ecosystem

Published on February 23, 2024
While not in the Great Lakes -- yet -- its ability to outcompete native species make the marbled crayfish a significant risk to the Great Lakes.