Statement of Purpose : Governor Jennifer Granholm has proclaimed  June 13-21, 2009 as Aquatic Invasive Species Awareness Week in Michigan to encourage people to help protect our waters by taking steps to prevent the spread and introduction of aquatic invasive species.

Aquatic invasive species or AIS are waterborne, non-native organisms that threaten the diversity or abundance of native species, the ecological stability of impacted waters, or threaten a commercial, agricultural, aquacultural or recreational activity.  A pproximately 183 aquatic invasive species have been introduced into the Great Lakes  from around the world. 

Aquatic Invasive Species Awareness Week is an opportunity to learn about aquatic invasive species, their impacts on Michigan waters, as well as what you can do to prevent their introduction and spread in your local area and throughout the state.  The good news is that there are prevention steps that we can take when boating, fishing, and otherwise enjoying the water that can help prevent the spread of invasive species. Before taking your boat or equipment to a new waterbody:

Get Involved

• Promote AIS Awareness!
• Report new sightings to 1-877-STOP-ANS or (877-786-7267) or the National Nonindigenous Aquatic Species Information System 
• Learn more about AIS at www.protectyourwaters.net    
• Get Involved! Handout         

Events and Activities

May/June - Purple Loosestrife Beetle Collection Days
June 4, 2009 - Phragmites Workshop, Traverse City (contact: contact: Denise Baker at The Watershed Center, Grand Traverse Bay to register) 
June 10, 2009 - Phragmites Workshop - Tawas Bay Beach Resort. Space is limited for the event. Part of the training will be held outdoors so be prepared to head outside. For more information and or to RSVP contact Tim Engelhardt at 989-344-0753 x14
June 19, 2009 - Phragmites Workshop - Emmet County (contact Nancy Salar, Emmet County Planning, Zoning, & Construction Resources)
June 13 - Clinton River Watershed Council River Days 
June 13-14 - Michigan DNR Free Fishing Weekend
June 15- Aquatic Nuisance Species Council Meeting
June 20 - Phragmites Workshop, Emmet County
July 20-22 - Inland Seas Education Association, Invasive Species Course 
July 29-30 - Inland Seas Education Association, Invasive Species Research Program

Volunteer Opportunties

Clean Boats, Clean Waters
DNR Volunteer Stewardship Programs
Michigan Stewardship Network Events
Michigan Nature Association
The Nature Conservancy, Michigan Chapter

Contact Information

For more information about other activities occurring in your area, contact your local state, county or city park or your local Chamber of Commerce, municipality or lake association. 

For more information contact:
Office of the Great Lakes
Michigan Department of Environmental Quality
P.O. Box  30473
Lansing , MI 48909-7973
Phone: 517-335-4056
Fax: 517-335-4053
Email:  finnelle@michigan.gov

Photo credit Sheryl Marsh @ Supergirl designs for the graphic artwork