Keeping our trees safe from invasive species

HWA in Appalacian Mountains

eightWest - WOOD-TV
Tuesday, December 18, 2018

Hemlock woolly adelgid (HWA) has made its way to Michigan. HWA is a devastating invasive species that attacks hemlock trees, which play a crucial role in the forests in Michigan. Hemlock trees are long-lived and provide habitat for a large variety of birds and animals, offering both shelter and forage. The heavy shade given by hemlock trees keeps the forest temperatures lower and rivers and streams cooler, which allows for more robust fisheries. Many organizations, including Ottawa County Parks and Grand Valley State University, have been working together to identify problem areas to rid them of HWA before it spreads.

If you would like to learn more about this issue, visit saveourhemlocks.org. And to learn more about Ottawa County Parks and their volunteer opportunities please visit, miottawa.org/parks.

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