The Michigan Invasive Species Grant Program (MISGP) is a state-wide initiative that supports projects focused on the prevention, detection, management, and eradication of invasive species across Michigan's terrestrial and aquatic environments. Administered by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) in collaboration with the Departments of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) and Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD), the program provides both funding, ranging from $25,000 to $400,000, and technical assistance. This program aligns with the broader mission of environmental conservation and protection of Michigan's natural resources and industries from the detrimental effects of invasive species.
The program's target beneficiaries include local, state, federal, or tribal units of government, non-profit 501(c)(3) organizations, and universities. The overarching impact goal is to safeguard Michigan's ecosystems, native plant and animal populations, recreational areas, and key industries such as fisheries, agriculture, and timber. By addressing the strategic issues of prevention, detection, eradication, and control, the MISGP aims to mitigate the ecological and economic damage caused by invasive species.
The MISGP's strategic priorities and focuses are clearly defined. Firstly, it emphasizes preventing new invasive species introductions by targeting pathways that facilitate their entry and spread within the state. Secondly, it aims to strengthen the statewide early detection and response network through widespread monitoring, rapid communication, and trained personnel, involving coordinated efforts among various agencies, Cooperative Invasive Species Management Areas (CISMAs), industry professionals, researchers, and citizens. Thirdly, the program focuses on limiting the dispersal of recently confirmed invasive species by educating the public on identification and prevention of "hitchhikers." Finally, it addresses the management and control of widespread, established invasive species through large-scale management efforts and innovative treatment methods to restore ecosystem health.
Expected outcomes and measurable results for the MISGP include increased statewide coverage of CISMAs, enhanced response capabilities to early detections of invasive species, improved education and outreach to Michigan citizens, and increased management and control of both terrestrial and aquatic invasive species. The program's theory of change posits that by investing in a comprehensive strategy encompassing prevention, early detection, rapid response, and sustained control efforts, the state can effectively reduce invasive species populations, protect biodiversity, preserve natural resources, and maintain the economic vitality of Michigan's natural resource-dependent sectors.
