Photo by Will Blozan, Dying hemlock trees in the Appalachian Mountains.
In 2016, Hemlock Woolly Adelgid (HWA) was first established in the Upper Midwest, in Ottawa County, MI. As of 2025, it now stretches up the western coast of Michigan, currently with the northern extent in Leelanau and Antrim Counties. This invasive pest has devastated forests along the East Coast of the United States. Within Michigan, there are an estimated 170 million hemlock trees that are at risk of dying from HWA. However, the loss of hemlock within our forests is just the beginning.
Long-term studies from the east coast have documented extensive negative effects caused by the loss of hemlock within natural communities. These changes affect the ecology and economy of the infested areas.
There is good news. This pest is treatable, and with your help we can keep it at bay.
We believe we can stop the spread of this forest pest before it is too late. Unlike the emerald ash borer, which recently devastated Michigan, this is pest slow moving, treatable, and concentrated on the western shore of Michigan. We need you to IDENTIFY, REPORT, and TAKE ACTION.
More information about the ecological damage HWA can do.
More information about the economic damage HWA can do.
From the Michigan Department of Agriculture & Rural Development: “Balsam woolly adelgid, a tiny, sap-feeding insect that attacks true fir trees, has been detected at the Backus Creek State Game …
MISP Funding Updates- Statewide detection and response grants will support early detection and response efforts for watch list invasive species, including hemlock woolly adelgid (HWA). Read more about prevention efforts …
The Michigan departments of Natural Resources and Agriculture and Rural Development encourage those who have eastern hemlock trees on their property to take time this winter to inspect the trees …
State of Michigan – Funding for the Michigan Invasive Species Grant Program will be less than anticipated for the current grant cycle. The state’s fiscal year 2026 budget allocates $2.4 …
Manistee News Advocate – In recognition of Firewood Month, Michigan’s Invasive Species Program staff is taking a few minutes to unpack some firewood facts to help you make safe firewood …
There are many ways you can report HWA (and other forest pests)!
Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, MDA-Info@michigan.gov or phone the MDARD Customer Service Center: 800-292-3939.
Use the Midwest Invasive Species Information Network (MISIN) online reporting tool. Please note you must create an account to make a report to MISIN, so the data can be verified! You can also download the MISIN smartphone app and report from your phone.
MISIN reporting instructions:
