Publications

All Reports by Year

Placing an Order

Our publications can be ordered by mail and paid for by check using our order form. Please include the report number on the order form and make checks payable to Michigan State University.

Orders can also be placed by phone, and paid for by credit card below.

Agricultural Practices That Conserve Grassland Birds

Agricultural Practices That Conserve Grassland Birds is a 22 page booklet that provides an overview of conservation practices that can be implemented to benefit grassland birds and other wildlife while sustaining or enhancing agricultural production. Michigan's grasslands, including hay fields, pastures and old fields can provide valuable habitat for a variety of wildlife, especially grassland birds which have suffered severe population declines. Some of the conservation practices discussed include: delayed mowing and grazing, planting warm season grasses, use of flushing bars, mowing from the inside out, rotational mowing and removal of invading brush. Experiences of farmers who tried these practices are reported in the guide along with a list of resources for those interested in learning more.

View a PDF version of the booklet
Order for free (shipping charges apply) from the MSUE Bookstore. The product number is E3190.

A Field Guide to Invasive Plants of Aquatic and Wetland Habitats for Michigan

An invaluable resource for professionals and amateurs alike, A Field Guide to Invasive Plants of Aquatic and Wetland Habitats for Michigan includes photos and descriptions of 47 invasive plant species. Funded by DNRE - Water Bureau as part of a broader research project, the field guide is now available for download below. Aquatic and wetland species are included, along with a number of upland species that commonly venture into wetland habitats.

The guide is organized into two major sections:a pictorial key and species accounts.

Species accounts include common and scientific names, photographs, legal restrictions where applicable, a brief description of each plant’s characteristics, habitat information, dispersal modes and the best times for survey. The guide also includes an introductory section with monitoring guidance.

More details on the booklet
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Mail order printed book for $12.00

A Field Identification Guide to Invasive Plants in Michigan's Natural Communities

This field guide is intended to help readers identify key invasive species early so that a rapid response can be initiated while successful treatment is still likely. It features 47 species, with beautiful photos, plant descriptions, habitat preferences, modes of reproduction, and guidance for monitoring and rapid response. The introductory section is a must read! It provides a concise overview of invasive plants including their threat, the importance of early detection, and the elements of a more comprehensive approach to addressing their impacts. The helpful tips, detailed glossary, and distribution maps based upon documented herbarium records make this field guide truly unique. This is a treasure you won't want to leave in the office.

Mail order printed book for $14.00
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Exploring the Prairie Fen Wetlands of Michigan

Exploring the Prairie Fen Wetlands of Michigan is a striking "full-color" publication with beautiful photographs and illustrations. It provides general readers and naturalists alike with a description of the landscape context, ecological processes and vegetation of prairie fens and includes vignettes that highlight noteworthy fen species. This book also provides an overview of threats to this rare community as well as restoration and management activities that readers can become involved with to help preserve and restore this unique habitat and its species. Finally this publication provides a handy reference of places to visit prairie fens along with checklists of fen plants and animals.

Mail order printed book for $14.00
View an excerpt from the book

Prairies and Savannas in Michigan: Rediscovering Our Natural Heritage

Intended for general readers, Prairies and Savannas in Michigan clearly describes the variety of natural habitats and itemizes noteworthy species found in each. In addition, it includes a special section on plants and animals, highlighting those species that are threatened or endangered, and it suggests what readers can do to help preserve and restore both habitats and species. The book fills a unique niche for practicing and armchair ecologists alike, and it provides a much needed educational overview for citizens living in a state with such unique and diverse—though rapidly disappearing—habitats.