Early Detection & Response Projects

What is EDR? How is it managed? 

  • ​Early Detection and Response (EDR) species are those species that are invasive in other areas—maybe Wisconsin or downstate in Michigan—but are not yet established in northwest lower Michigan.  We are continually on the lookout for these species through ISN staff and citizen reports through MISIN as well as a connected web of partner organizations throughout the state.
  • EDR species are a risk to our region because they have a reputation for being invasive elsewhere.  The plan is to be proactive and catch them while it’s cheap and easy to control the population, rather than waiting until they’re negatively impacting our habitats.
  • EDR species are ISN’s highest priority.  We are always on the lookout and deeply appreciate your reports through MISIN!  Of course, not all EDR locations can be treated; the most common barrier is that ISN may not have permission to work on a property.

What is ISN doing about EDR?

With Michigan Invasive Species Grant Program funds subgranted to ISN through The Nature Conservancy in Michigan, we're spending the 2018-19 and 2019-20 winters looking for an insect invader that harms our trees:  hemlock woolly adelgid.  This project is a part of a state-wide effort to learn more about where this invader is and isn't in Michigan; the information we gather will be used to create a comprehensive state-wide strategy for management.  If you have hemlock trees that need surveying, especially if you're near the Lake Michigan (or Bay) shoreline, please contact us!  No parcel is too small (especially if you get your neighbors on board too).
You can learn more about this project from the NatureChange video on the topic.
 Through funding from the Environmental Protection Agency, US Forest Service, and the Michigan Invasive Species Grant Program, ISN has been able to work on EDR species throughout our service area.
  • Black swallow-wort:  found in Kinglsey in 2018; working with landowners to treat, remove, and stop the spread.
    Learn more about this project from the NatureChange video on the topic.
  • Giant hogweed:  ISN is controlling 2 populations in Manistee County since 2016; as of 2018 there were very few plants left!
  • Black jetbead:  reported throughout Traverse City and Northport; working with landowners to suggest alternatives since 2016
  • Coltsfoot (assisting):  extensive management on Glen Lake to control coltsfoot and promote Michigan monkeyflower since 2013
  • Hydrilla:  reported in Grand Traverse and Benzie counties in 2016, but response efforts by ISN found no instances of this invader!
HWA Survey Technician Andy Harmon looking for invasive hemlock woolly adelgid.
ISN Crew Member Josh Turner controlling
​black swallow-wort in Kinglsey.