Michigan Has 2 New Invasive Species
Goodness, gracious. Who knew that every year, the the Michigan Department of Natural Resources adds new invasive species to our watch list? I guess it makes sense, because our ecosystem is constantly changing. Well, the DNR has added two new invasive species to the Michigan watch list, and they took out another. I admit that it’s going to be hard to keep an eye out for these new invasive species, but as good Michiganders, we should do our best.
New Invasive Species:
One of the species is the mountain pine beetle. We don’t even have mountains here, right? Anyway, a press release calls these “the most aggressive, persistent and destructive bark beetle in the western U.S. and Canada.” That doesn’t sound good. They also say that due to more mild winters and hotter, drier summers, this pine beetle has seen an “unprecedented population growth.” Yikes.
“White and red pines are primary species in our forest ecosystems, and jack pine serves as critical habitat for the Kirtand’s warbler,” Susie Iott, invasive species program specialist with the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, said in a statement. “If mountain pine beetle were to become widely established in Michigan, it would cause severe losses across multiple industries, including timber products, plant nurseries and tourism.”
The other species is the water-primrose. It spreads in “dense mats within wetlands and shoreline areas, outcompeting native species and making boating and water access difficult, according to a release. “Though not common in trade, it was likely introduced through the landscape or water garden pathway,” Bill Keiper, aquatic biologist with the Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy said in a statement. “Several Ludwigia species are common in trade but are not invasive and look much different than water-primrose.”
On the upside, the DNR has taken the European frog-bit off the Michigan invasive species list. They do note that it’s still illegal to grow European frog-bit in the state, however.
10 Fun Things to Do at the Lake
Swimming in the cool waters
I grew up a swimmer, but some lakes are just too cold for my taste. That said, many people love a refreshing dip into crisp, cold water at their local lake. Just check temperatures before you jump in, because if it’s too early in the season, those temperatures could be dangerously cold.
Little kid swimming in the lake. Getty Images.
Camping near the shoreline
Water often attracts special wildlife that you won’t find anywhere else. That makes camping near a lake a very special experience and different from the typical campground. When you’re camping, make sure you check out the nature that blossoms around the lakes and wetlands, too.
Campsite with orange tent. Getty Images.
Fishing
When I was a little kid, I wanted to go fishing. My dad was not a fisherman by any means and was pretty clueless about it. So, he had a friend of his take us fishing, and it was so fun, even though I didn’t catch anything. That said, fishing is a great summer activity on the lake.
Father and son fishing on boat. Getty Images.
Paddleboarding, kayaking or canoeing
If you’re looking for an activity to help keep you in shape, paddleboarding, kayaking and canoeing are all great exercise. All of those activities are harder than they look, too, so they can be challenging. But, in the end, you’ll have a good time and get in a real workout. Many lakes have places were you can rent a paddleboat, kayak or canoe, too.
Couple kayaking together. Getty Images.
Water sports
One of my cousins absolutely loves jet skiing. It’s always fun to hear him talk about the experience. I’m not much of a water sports enthusiast, but I can appreciate those who do partake. You don’t even have to have your own boat or jet skis, as they are often available for rent nearby.
Young man riding jet boat on a summer day at the lake. Getty Images.
Have a picnic
It’s always a charming activity to have a picnic by the lake. Invite some friends or family over and bring some delicious food to enjoy while looking at the water. Oh, and make sure to have ice cream. That’s a must.
Picnic by the lake. Basket with berries, bread. Getty Images.
Take a hike
Hiking near a lake can be extra lovely, as the water can offer glorious scenery to really make your hike memorable. As aforementioned, lakes often attract nature that you don’t find anywhere else, so hiking around the water can be a unique experience.
Woman with a small yellow dog standing on pier by the mountain lake. Getty Images.
Party with friends
Parties by the lake are always fun. So, get out a grill and invite a bunch of friends down to the beach to enjoy a day or night of partying by the water. But, don’t get wasted, because drinking and swimming can be a deadly combination.
Happy friends doing selfie swimming in the sea with sail boat in background. Getty Images.
Sunbathing
Here’s my top choice, even though you’ll likely find me doing it in the shade: sunbathing. If the water is too cold of you’re just not up to more challenging activities, you can get some sun and lay on the beach. But, remember the sunscreen.
Women relaxing at the lake. Getty Images.
Lakeside games
Lakeside games are definitely a thing, and there are many quirky games that you can play by the lake. A few enjoyable lake games include water balloon fights, bean bag tosses, horseshoes and more. Pick a game and dig in.
Family on dock splashing feet in lake. Getty Images.
