Aquatic Invasive Plants: A Field Guide for Michigan Lakes, Streams, and Ponds
DOWNLOADApril 17, 2025 - Erick Elgin, Jo Latimore, Paige Filice, Kelsey Bockelman, Lois Wolfson
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EmailThis guidebook is designed to help you identify aquatic invasive plants that you might encounter in or near Michigan’s lakes, streams, and ponds. Each invasive plant entry includes a detailed illustration or photograph highlighting key characteristics to aid in identification. For some entries, we have also included similar-looking native plants and explained how to distinguish them from the invasive species.
Despite our best efforts, preventing invasive species isn’t always successful. Early detection is crucial to protecting Michigan’s waterways. By identifying new invasions early, we can better control their spread. This field guide is designed to help those who spend time around Michigan’s lakes, streams, and ponds learn how to identify aquatic invasive plants they may encounter.
Reporting instructions are provided for each invasive species in this book. It’s important to report a possible invasion even if you’re not completely sure about the identification. Experts at Michigan State University Extension and the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy can help verify the species.
We plan to print this guidebook in the summer of 2025. Get notified when it becomes available in our bookstore and more by signing up for the Center for Lakes and Streams email list.
