ISN treatment crew in Benzie County

Just like that, we are turning the page on another month. June was busy at ISN. The crew worked diligently with partners to remove garlic mustard, Japanese knotweed, and baby's breath. The rest of us have been in planning mode - preparing for fall treatments, planning additional workbees, and responding to public inquiries. 

Giant Hogweed (NYIS)
This time of year, many of the reports we receive are a case of mistaken identity - confusing native cow-parsnip for the highly invasive giant hogweed. It's important to learn the difference, especially because giant hogweed not only causes ecological damage, but can be a health hazard if the sap comes into contact with one's skin . Fortunately, actual sightings in this region are rare. Read on below or visit our website to learn more about identifying these two plants!

As always, we encourage you to continue reporting any invasive species you find to the  Midwest Invasive Species Information Network (MISIN) .

Yours in Conservation,
 
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Get Involved -  Upcoming Opportunities!

ISN Summer Events

Crystal Lake Boating Access Site, DNR
In partnership with Benzie Conservation District and 
Crystal Lake and Watershed Association
Saturday, July 2, 9:00-noon  - Benzie County



  Partner Events 
Benzie County
Saturday, July 16-- Adopt-A-Beach
Tuesday, July 26-- Hike at Green Point Dunes
Wednesday, July 27-- Shoreline Workshop

Grand Traverse County
Thursdays in July-- Yoga at the Nature Center
Wednesday, August 10-- Paddle with a Naturalist
All summer - Summer Camps

Leelanau County

Manistee County
Saturday, July 2-- Clean Boats, Clean Waters Event

See more partner events on our website!
Giant Hogweed and Cow-Parsnip
A Case of Mistaken Identity

Both of the Carrot Family (Apiaceae), it's no wonder giant hogweed and cow- parsnip are mistaken for one another. Not only do they share similarities in appearance, but they prefer the same growing environments - roadsides, wood edges, ditches, and floodplains. Despite the resemblance, cow-parsnip is a native species and serves as a highly important pollen and nectar source for many bees and wasps. Giant hogweed, on the other hand, is highly invasive and easily out-competes nearby vegetation. Additionally, its sap causes chemical burns after the affected area is exposed to sunlight - a major reason for learning proper identification! 

Giant Hogweed (Heracleum mantegazzianum)
Introduced as an ornamental in the early twentieth century and native to Asia, it is now prohibited under Michigan law. 

Flowers- June and July, small and white, head is 8-20 inches across
Height-  Can grow up to 20  feet tall
Leaves- Alternate, coarsely toothed and deeply lobed, divided into 1-3 large leaflets




Cow-parsnip (Heracleum maximum)
While still large compared to many other native plants, it is not nearly as tall as giant hogweed.  Coming in contact can also result in photo-sensitivi ty but to a lesser degree. One must break open the plant to be exposed to the sap, whereas, just brushing up against hogweed can cause rashes.

Flowers- May and June, small and white, head is 2-8 inches across
Height- Can grow up to 9 feet tall
Leaves- Leaves divided into 3-5 coarsely toothed, lobed leaflets

Example of cow-parsnip height and leaves. Notice the difference, compared to giant hogweed. 


To learn about several other look-a-likes, visit this site !

Go Beyond Beauty is Growing!
Visit our website to find a list of participating landscapers and nurseries or to learn more about joining this voluntary program to remove invasive ornamental plants from sales.
Featured Participant - June

Operating since 1995, owners Gordy and Julie Sovereign strive to not only provide a variety of plants and goods, but also information. They have several master gardener certifications and nurseryman designations on hand - and a very knowledgeable staff to guide you when purchasing plants. Their stock includes trees, evergreens, perennials, annuals, fruit trees, herbs, and vegetables. 
Visit their website to learn more!


231-941-0960                Like us on Facebook              HabitatMatters.org 
Grand Traverse Conservation District
1450 Cass Road
Traverse City, Michigan 49685
231-941-0960