The Michigan Department of Natural Resources has identified two new invasive species that it considers a risk for the state.
The spotted lanternfly and a Japanese chaff flower have been added to the DNR’s watch list.
Joanne Foreman is with the DNR. She said a risk analysis of both species showed both could spread into the state.
“With the spotted lanternfly the concern initially is agricultural. It likes grapes, it likes fruit, and it also likes hops, and that’s a booming industry here in Michigan.”
Foreman says the bug has been spreading in Pennsylvania and has the potential to reach Michigan.
She said the Japanese chaff flower has been found along the Ohio River.
“It’s a very aggressive plant and it spreads by seeds and those seeds attach to just about anything: hair, clothing, animal fur.”
Foreman said the plant can easily take over river banks, choking out any native species.
Residents who see either species are encouraged to reach out to the DNR. You can find out more about these species here: https://www.michigan.gov/invasives/0,5664,7-324-68002_74188---,00.html