Michigan Has 2 New Invasive Species

Goodness, gracious. Who knew that every year, the the Michigan Department of Natural Resources adds new invasive species to our watch list? I guess it makes sense, because our ecosystem is constantly changing. Well, the DNR has added two new invasive species to the Michigan watch list, and they took out another. I admit that it's going to be hard to keep an eye out for these new invasive species, but as good Michiganders, we should do our best.

One of the species is the mountain pine beetle. We don't even have mountains here, right? Anyway, a press release calls these "the most aggressive, persistent and destructive bark beetle in the western U.S. and Canada." That doesn't sound good. They also say that due to more mild winters and hotter, drier summers, this pine beetle has seen an "unprecedented population growth." Yikes.

"White and red pines are primary species in our forest ecosystems, and jack pine serves as critical habitat for the Kirtand's warbler," Susie Iott, invasive species program specialist with the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, said in a statement. "If mountain pine beetle were to become widely established in Michigan, it would cause severe losses across multiple industries, including timber products, plant nurseries and tourism."

The other species is the water-primrose. It spreads in "dense mats within wetlands and shoreline areas, outcompeting native species and making boating and water access difficult, according to a release. "Though not common in trade, it was likely introduced through the landscape or water garden pathway," Bill Keiper, aquatic biologist with the Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy said in a statement. "Several Ludwigia species are common in trade but are not invasive and look much different than water-primrose."

On the upside, the DNR has taken the European frog-bit off the Michigan invasive species list. They do note that it's still illegal to grow European frog-bit in the state, however.

Summer is here, and with it comes the opportunity to enjoy America's beautiful lakes. One of my favorite summer activities is going to a pristine lake. Whether I just hang out on the beach or take a ride in a pontoon, it's always a summer highlight. So, what are some fun things to do at the lake this summer?

Before we get to that, did you know that there's actually a Lakes Appreciation Month? It's true. The North American Lakes Management Society (NALMS) has named July the official Lakes Appreciation Month. The designation is to "focus attention on the value of lakes and reservoirs to society and the threats they face." NALMS also states that their mission is to "forge partnerships among citizens, scientists, and professionals to foster the management and protection of lakes and reservoirs...for today and tomorrow."

One fun fact about lakes is that the lowest lake in the world is the Dead Sea, on the edge of Israel and Jordan. The surface level is 418 m below sea level. That's incredible. Also, the Great Lakes, which are shared between the U.S. and Canada, contain roughly 21% of the world's freshwater supply.

So, what are some engaging activities that you can do on the lake this year? Read on for a list of 10 fun things to do on the lake this summer.

I grew up a swimmer, but some lakes are just too cold for my taste. That said, many people love a refreshing dip into crisp, cold water at their local lake. Just check temperatures before you jump in, because if it's too early in the season, those temperatures could be dangerously cold.

Water often attracts special wildlife that you won't find anywhere else. That makes camping near a lake a very special experience and different from the typical campground. When you're camping, make sure you check out the nature that blossoms around the lakes and wetlands, too.

When I was a little kid, I wanted to go fishing. My dad was not a fisherman by any means and was pretty clueless about it. So, he had a friend of his take us fishing, and it was so fun, even though I didn't catch anything. That said, fishing is a great summer activity on the lake.

If you're looking for an activity to help keep you in shape, paddleboarding, kayaking and canoeing are all great exercise. All of those activities are harder than they look, too, so they can be challenging. But, in the end, you'll have a good time and get in a real workout. Many lakes have places were you can rent a paddleboat, kayak or canoe, too.

One of my cousins absolutely loves jet skiing. It's always fun to hear him talk about the experience. I'm not much of a water sports enthusiast, but I can appreciate those who do partake. You don't even have to have your own boat or jet skis, as they are often available for rent nearby.

It's always a charming activity to have a picnic by the lake. Invite some friends or family over and bring some delicious food to enjoy while looking at the water. Oh, and make sure to have ice cream. That's a must.

Hiking near a lake can be extra lovely, as the water can offer glorious scenery to really make your hike memorable. As aforementioned, lakes often attract nature that you don't find anywhere else, so hiking around the water can be a unique experience.

Parties by the lake are always fun. So, get out a grill and invite a bunch of friends down to the beach to enjoy a day or night of partying by the water. But, don't get wasted, because drinking and swimming can be a deadly combination.

Here's my top choice, even though you'll likely find me doing it in the shade: sunbathing. If the water is too cold of you're just not up to more challenging activities, you can get some sun and lay on the beach. But, remember the sunscreen.

Lakeside games are definitely a thing, and there are many quirky games that you can play by the lake. A few enjoyable lake games include water balloon fights, bean bag tosses, horseshoes and more. Pick a game and dig in.