Video series provides fun information about invasive species, beneficial insects, pest management, and more

LANSING – Have you ever thought about bugs and thought “ewwww?” While some insects can cause damage to our natural resources and environment, but there are lots of them that actually help our environment and farming community.

To help provide some fun information and education about bugs and insects, the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) announced the launch of a new “Buggin’ Out” video series which includes expert interviews from entomologists, pest management specialists, veterinarians, and other scientists who love to talk about bugs.

“We’re excited to share our passion and insight on insects, what they can do to help our farmers, while educating and empowering Michiganders to take action against the spread of invasive species, to know how to combat pests in and around their home, and to gain a better understanding of the significant impact insects have on our lives,” said Mike Philip, MDARD’s Pesticide and Plant Pest Management Division Director. “An educated public can help support their Michigan’s diverse ecosystems and protect the environment and be our first line of defense against harmful pests.”

The “Buggin’ Out” series hopes to help educate and showcase all the things insects do – good or bad - and to shed a light a variety of topics, including:

The important role native insects play in the ecosystem.
Integrated pest management solutions for common pests in the home.
How to protect yourself and your pets from harmful insects like ticks and mites.
In-depth education about the invasive species of greatest concern in Michigan.
The negative impact invasive species have on the environment and agricultural industries.

“Buggin’ Out” is available now on MDARD’s YouTube channel and across the department’s social media platforms. Watch the first two episodes of the video series, Why Pollinators are so Important and Slowing the Spread of Spotted Lanternfly.   back...