Michigan’s Department of Agriculture and Rural Development discusses how to stop the spread of invasive species

LANSING, Mich. (WZMQ) – For the first time since 2022, the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) has reported sightings of the Spotted Lantern Fly. The department is now trying to contain the spread by educating those who enjoy spending time outdoors.

Summer is the most common time for invasive plants and insects to spread, and once they become established, removing them and restoring natural systems can be costly and time-consuming.

Susie Iott is an invasive species specialist at MDARD. She says the simplest solution to the problem is prevention.

Invasive plants and seeds can easily get caught on outdoor gear. Iott recommends cleaning gear, pets and vehicles after every trip. For boaters: pull all plugs, drain the water and remove plants and debris. And last but not least, when fishing on the water, clean your gear after use and never throw away bait.

She said they most commonly spread during the transport of firewood.

“The thing with the spotted lanternfly is that they lay their eggs on absolutely anything, so it can be spread very easily through recreational activities,” Iott said. “It’s really surprising how much can be spread on firewood. Even though you may not be able to see it visually, because sometimes these things are so small that you can’t see them with the naked eye.”

Over 140 different species can be carried on firewood. Iott said the best rule is to burn it where you bought it. Firewood should never be transported outside the county where it was purchased to prevent the spread of undetectable eggs or spores. She said you should always report any suspicious insects, plants or animals if you might see them.

“We’d rather have someone report something that turns out to be no big deal than not report something that, you know, we’re concerned about,” Iott said. “Invasive species are coming and if they can take hold, they can have an impact and threaten endangered species.”

MDARD provides a guide to identifying and reporting invasive plants and animals at michigan.gov/invasives.