Wildflower Assn. of Michigan accepting grant proposals through Dec. 1

The Wildflower Association of Michigan is accepting grant proposals for 2027. The annual WAM Grant program funds projects that support the organization's mission. Since its inception, WAM has donated more than $170,000 to non-profit groups all around Michigan. Previous grants have supported schools to establish native plant gardens, assisted non-profit organizations to purchase native plants for restoration projects, and much more.

Each applicant may request up to $1,250 in support. A final Project Report is required of all WAM grant recipients.

Grant applications will be accepted through December 1, 2026. Recipients will be notified by January 31, 2027. Awards will be presented at the annual Michigan Native Plant Conference at the Kellogg Center in East Lansing on March 6-7, 2027.

Questions? Send an email to wamgrants@gmail.com. Find the application form here.

Michigan adds buckthorn, barberry, Callery pear and more to state invasive plant list

In a big win for the environment, the Michigan Commission for Agriculture and Rural Development unanimously voted this summer to add six invasive plant species to the state's prohibited and restricted species list. As of June 19, the sale of water hyacinth and water lettuce is prohibited. Restrictions on common buckthorn, glossy buckthorn, Callery pear and Japanese barberry (including cultivars) will begin in January 2028. Thanks and congratulations to the WAM Environmental Advocacy Council and the many other Michigan environmental organizations involved in this important effort to battle invasives.

Learn more with these articles from MSU Extension and the Great Lakes Echo.