ICYMI: Thursday, August 10, 2023, 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.
Why, Oh Why Won’t They Clean, Drain and Dry? Understanding Impediments to Boater and Angler Behavior Change
Aquatic invasive species continue to be spread by boaters and anglers, primarily by those who travel between waterways without cleaning their equipment. Well, why aren’t people cleaning when we know the risks of spread? Carrie Meier from Daniel Hayes’ lab in the MSU Department of Fisheries and Wildlife interviewed a thousand boaters and anglers to understand just that. Meier will share what was learned about motivations and barriers to equipment cleaning, perceptions of invasive species spread and other interesting results.
Tuesday, October 3, 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.
Where the Sidewalk Ends: Choosing Resilient Trees for Tomorrow’s Urban Environments
Ash, elm and chestnut trees once were as common in cities as the streets that bear their names. Our canopy today is much less diverse due to insects, disease, invasive species and poor species selection. Lawrence Sobson, DNR urban forester and partnership coordinator, will share examples of ideal tree species, how to assess urban sites and provide the information you need ensure the trees you choose can live for the next 100 years. Good information for lake properties too!
Tuesday, November 7, 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.
Must You Find Another Shrubbery? Understanding the Impacts of Invasive Box Tree Moth in Michigan
Box tree moth (Cydalima perspectalis) was first detected in Michigan in fall 2022. This invasive pest, native to East Asia, poses a major threat to the boxwood plant, an ornamental shrub that is a valuable part of the U.S. (and Michigan) nursery and horticultural industry. Join Susie Iott, MDARD invasive species program specialist, to learn more about identification, impacts and the state’s response to limit the spread of this invasive pest.