A.23. SUMMARY OF AQUATIC INVASIVE SPECIES MANAGEMENT IN MICHIGAN 
A.23.1. AQUATIC INVASIVE SPECIES MANAGEMENT PLAN 
Michigan’s Aquatic Nuisance Species (ANS) Management Plan was published in 2002 
(see Appendix B, State Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan Summaries for a general 
description of the Plan). 
A.23.2. AQUATIC INVASIVE SPECIES PROGRAMS AND ACTIVITIES 
• ANS Council, Michigan Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ); Michigan 
Department of Natural Resources (MI DNR); Michigan Department of Agriculture 
(MDA); National Wildlife Federation; Michigan United Conservation Clubs; 
Michigan Education Association; Michigan State University, Department of 
Fisheries and Wildlife. The Council implements the ANS Management Plan and does 
planning and strategy for member agencies and associations. As of 2006, council 
members are considering a rapid response plan. The Council monitors aquatic invasive 
species (AIS) and promotes control, but not eradication (Michigan does not spend money 
to eradicate AIS where it is impossible). The Council also focuses on measures to 
prevent further introductions and spread of ANS. 
• Invasive Species Advisory Council, MDEQ, Michigan Department of 
Transportation, MI DNR, MDA. The Council is responsible for overseeing all 
management of invasive species in the state (aquatic and terrestrial). 
• Education and Outreach, MDEQ Office of the Great Lakes. MDEQ officials conduct 
outreach on how to prevent the spread of ANS. The office also offers removal and 
control training for local governments, conservation groups, citizens, and associations 
and issues permits for the use of chemicals for ANS removal. 
• Status and Trends Surveys, MI DNR, Fisheries Division. When habitat biologists 
encounter AIS during their annual fish Status and Trend Surveys, they kill and preserve it 
for later identification. Any recurrence is noted in the files. 
• Purple Loosestrife Program, Michigan State University, Michigan Sea Grant 
College Program. This program introduces biocontrol agents (natural insect enemies) to 
existing purple loosestrife populations. 
A.23.3. CLIMATE CHANGE CONCERNS 
• MDEQ is concerned about ANS expansion as waters warm. Hydrilla and water lettuce 
are overwintering in northern areas. 
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