Workshop: Aquatic Plant Identification, Part 1 - 9/16/20

Submersed aquatic plants are an important component of lake ecosystems and provide many ecosystem services. Yet, aquatic plants are often identified simply as “cabbage” or “narrow-leaf pondweed species”, which overlooks the diversity of species present in north temperate lakes. Furthermore, aquatic invasive species can often be confused with native look-alikes, which may spur improper management actions or inaction. This workshop will consist of a brief lecture covering aquatic plant identification 101 followed by interactive practice identifying aquatic plants. Participation in this workshop will help advance submersed aquatic plant identification skills and foster a growing appreciation of native aquatic plants found in Michigan’s lakes. Presented by Erick Elgin, Michigan State University Extension, and Dr. Jo Latimore, Michigan State University, as part of the 2020 Michigan Inland Lakes Convention.