Michigan’s Aquatic Invasive Species Scavenger Hunt

Spending time on the water over the July 4th holiday? Whether you are at the lake, paddling a river, or walking the shoreline, you can take part from anywhere in Michigan. 


From June 29 through July 12, the second annual MiCorps AIS Detection Blitz invites people across Michigan to snap photos of aquatic plants and animals that look unfamiliar or might be invasive. If something catches your eye, or if you already know a location where aquatic invasive species are present, just take a quick photo and upload it using the free iNaturalist app. No experience or identification skills are needed. 


To join, search for 2026 MiCorps AIS Detection Blitz on the iNaturalist app and join the project. 


Once you join the project, anything you upload during the event dates is automatically added to a statewide map of aquatic invasive species observations. This information contributes to ongoing citizen science efforts and is used by researchers, resource managers, and local organizations to track and manage invasive species across Michigan. 


Last year’s event documented species like phragmites, Eurasian watermilfoil, invasive cattails, curly-leaf pondweed, and zebra mussels across the state. 


It is easy to take part and works for all ages. Turn it into a game with kids, get competitive with friends, or simply see what you notice next time you are near the water. 


MiCorps, the Michigan Clean Water Corps, is a program of the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy and is administered through Michigan State University Extension. The program works with volunteers and partners across the state to monitor and better understand Michigan’s water resources. 


Additional information, an instructional video, and registration for a short informational webinar on June 9, 2026 at 11:00 AM can all be found here: 

https://www.micorps.net/events/aisblitz