Invasive plants - those that are not native to Northern Michigan - can be devastating to a conservation area like Omena Woods.   Aquatic and shoreline invasive plants are also a problem in our beautiful coastal region. Listed below are some of the invasive plants that have been identified  in the woods and on the dunes and beaches of Michigan.  To learn more about these plants and get advice on controlling them click on the links in the list of websites under the plant lists.   This list is not all inclusive but does include some of the more common invasives in this area.

Herbaceous Plants:
Baby's Breath
Bladder Campion
Bouncing Bet
Bull Thistle
Canada Thistle
Dame's Rocket
Garlic Mustard
Phragmites*
Purple Loosestrife
Spotted Knapweed
Swallow-wort
 

Shrubs, Trees and Vines:
Autumn Olive
Black Alder
Black Locust
Buckthorn, Common and Glossy
Japanese Barberry
Japanese Knotweed
Norway Maple
Oriental Bittersweet
Russian Olive
Tree of Heaven

*Click here to download a copy of the Leelanau Township ordinance on Phragmites.

For more information, photos and advice on managing and controlling these and other invasive plants check out these websites by clicking on the green text links:

Michigan State University Extension:  Learn more about the information Michigan State University Extension has on invasive species including control practices and publications and online information references about invasive plants,

Michigan Department of Natural Resources:  The state agency committed to the conversation and protection of natural resources has an extensive information section on their website about invasive animals and plants in Michigan.   On this page you'll find information about invasive species, profiles of invasive animals and plants and learn about the DNR's efforts to control invasives.  You'll also find links to state and federal laws governing invasive species as well as photos and descriptions.  You can also download publications on managing invasives.

Michigan Sea Grant:  This  cooperative program of the University of Michigan and Michigan State University Extension is part of the National Sea Grant College Program.