West Michigan Hemlock Woolly Adelgid Taskforce
Photo by Will Blozan, Dying hemlock trees in the Appalachian Mountains.
In 2016, Hemlock Woolly Adelgid (HWA) was first established in the Upper Midwest, and unfortunately right here in Ottawa County. 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 it is not yet widespread.
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 in West 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.
The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development recently verified a new detection of invasive hemlock woolly adelgid at the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore in northern Benzie County. To …
The Michigan Department of Natural Resources recently confirmed a new detection of invasive hemlock woolly adelgid at Ludington State Park in Mason County. On Oct. 19, a single hemlock woolly …
On March 6, 2020 the Department of Natural Resources confirmed the presence of hemlock woolly adelgid (HWA) in Mason County. Survey and treatment updates will be provided as they become …
Efforts continue in the fight against Hemlock Woolly Adelgid (HWA) in and beyond Ottawa County. Surveys and treatments continue to be managed on both public and private property. The four-county …
Ottawa County Parks has established a management plan to limit the spread of hemlock woolly adelgid (HWA). The county has opted for injections of a pesticide in high-risk areas of …
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:
