What makes something an invasive species?​
An invasive species is one that non-native whose introduction is likely to cause harm to our (Michigan's) environment, economy, or human health. "Non-native" can mean an origin that could be as far away as Asia (knotweed, lantern fly, stilt grass, etc.), or could be from a different region here in the US (red swamp Crayfish). But remember, it must be non-native AND cause harm.  
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I think I've found an invasive species, but I'm not entirely sure. How can I tell?
Photograph it! Getting the best picture possible of the species in question is crucial to helping you to properly identify something. This is more tricky with bugs and fish and other highly mobile things than it is with plants, but it's important for both. 
Once you've taken some pictures, you can send it to us here at the CISMA (email or text is fine), or you can use one of the many apps that help to ID things, such as Google Lens, PictureThis, or iNaturalist. These apps have come a long way in recent years, but it never hurts to double check before doing something drastic in terms of removal or treatment. 
Also check out the Midwest Invasive Species Information Network for great info on how to ID these things as well as report them. 
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What can CM-CISMA do for me if I need help with invasives in my own yard?
Currently, our assistance is education and network based. We are always happy to give suggestions on treatment methods or put you in touch with contractors that have helped us and other landowners in the past. There is no cost associated with this sort of assistance. 
If you are more of a DIYer, we have a tool rental program that can be a cost effective way of treating things yourself at a much lower cost than buying the tools outright. 
If the species you've found is more in the realm of "early detection, rapid response," it could merit someone from the CM-CISMA coming out there to treat it. This is not typically the case, but it never hurts to ask. 

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I don't live in one of the five counties in the CM-CISMA service area. Who do I reach out to? 

We are fortunate enough to have total CISMA coverage for the state of Michigan! If you want to know who your coordinator/CISMA is, you can find it here.