Jackson County Invasive Partnership

10/29/2024

Build single board bat houses to celebrate !

Bat houses should be hung at least 10 feet, and preferably 15 feet above the ground. A warm east wall near vegetation and a water source is best for bats making the house their home. On an east wall, they'll receive morning sun and will also be shielded from the hot afternoon sun. Bat houses can also be placed on a pole, tree, or the side of a barn. The exact size and shape of the bat house is not that important except for the width of the opening which should not exceed one inch and ideally is only 3/4 of an inch. No chemically treated wood should be used to construct bat houses. Some lumber is treated with wood preservatives or insecticides which could be harmful to the bats. All inner surfaces of bat houses, regardless of the kind built, must be rough or horizontally grooved so the bats can get a firm foothold. If the wood is planed, you may wish to cut 1/16" horizontal grooves into the surface of the smooth side of each roosting partition at about ½-inch intervals. Any planed surface of wood on the roof, front, back and sides should be turned to the outside of the box. Once the house is up, if you're lucky, you may have bats within a few weeks, especially if the house is up in early spring.

10/29/2024

WHAT WE PLANT HAS CONSEQUENCES. I can't tell you how many times a week I say that. Because it's true. This past weekend - what is our 18th wedding anniversary weekend - my husband and I pulled English ivy off our already-dying American beech trees. What a guy right?
Decades ago the original owners of our house thought it would look, well, English to have this non-native ivy growing up the stucco of our house. I removed it all off the house and in the gardens within a year of moving, but it's gone rogue on our riverbank. Permits will be needed for more removal (this is in the wetland buffer zone) but in the meantime we can at least gently pull it down off the bark of the 20 trees that line the bank, which also include shadbush, swamp ash, river birch, and red maple. Just because you like it doesn't mean you should plant it. Why it's still legal to buy this stuff is beyond me.

10/29/2024

As the cooler temperatures approach and the beautiful fall colors set in, it’s a wonderful time to explore Indiana’s woods and waters. Whether you are breathing in the cool, crisp, morning air on the trail or taking in a calm, golden sunset by the water, you can help protect and preserve our wild landscapes by reporting large scale pollution. Be the voice for Indiana’s natural resources and wildlife by reporting improper chemical disposal, or other materials, that can lead to large-scale death of wildlife by calling 1-800-TIP-IDNR or submit a tip at tip.IN.gov.

10/29/2024

10/29/2024

This week, we're celebrating bats and all they do for us:

🦇 Eat their body weight in insects nightly

🦇 Pollinate over 300 species of fruit

🦇 Disperse fruit seeds

🦇 Reduce the need for pesticides in agriculture

Across the continent, we’re working with partners to protect bats, research treatments to halt the spread of white-nose syndrome and raise awareness about just how incredible, and vulnerable these long-winged friends are.

Learn how you can help: https://www.fws.gov/story/bats-are-one-most-important-misunderstood-animals

Photo by U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

10/22/2024

🍁Embrace Autumn with Native Alternatives to Burning Bush🍁
As the vibrant hues of autumn sweep across Michigan, many gardeners seek ways to enhance their landscapes. While the iconic burning bush (Euonymus alatus) has long been a popular choice for its fiery red foliage, it’s time to consider the drawbacks and explore beautiful native alternatives that brighten your yard and benefit the local ecosystem.

The Downside of Burning Bush
Despite its stunning fall color, Burning Bush has several significant downsides. It is considered an invasive species in many areas, including Michigan. Its aggressive growth can outcompete native plants, disrupting local ecosystems and reducing biodiversity. Additionally, burning bush does not provide the same habitat and food resources for wildlife as native plants.

🍂Native Alternatives to Brighten Your Autumn
🍁Serviceberry (Amelanchier spp.) - Offers lovely white flowers in spring, berries for birds, and vibrant fall foliage.
🍁Spicebush (Lindera benzoin) - A lovely shrub with fragrant leaves and berries, it also attracts pollinators.
🍁Red-Osier Dogwood (Cornus sericea) - Known for its striking red stems, it provides year-round interest and supports wildlife.

As you prepare your garden for autumn, consider replacing burning bush with these beautiful native alternatives. Not only will you enjoy their seasonal splendor, but you’ll also be contributing to a healthier, more diverse ecosystem. Embrace the fall colors while supporting Michigan's natural heritage!

10/22/2024

10/22/2024

We often get questions about battery disposal. To ensure safe disposal and recycling of batteries, follow these important guidelines below from SEIRD's Fall 2024 Quarterly Newsletter: