As 2014 came to a close, Independence Township still had $17,220 to fight invasive species in the area.
At their Dec. 23 meeting, the township board approved a $10,055 payment on behalf of area organizations to expedite the process.
In 2014, the township budgeted $20,000 for the project.
Its purpose is combating invasive species, but only spent $2,780 so far. The board amended the 2014 budget to make the payment to the Natural Community Service. The township will be reimbursed $10,500 this year.
NCS will submit information to apply for grants and other funding from the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality.
Many communities are working to fight invasive species. Springfield Township is asking for $60 per household. Independence is requesting $40 per household.
Clarkston also spent $5,500 last year to fight them.
Invasive species such as phragmites are taking over area wetlands because they have no natural predator. The reed-like plants can grow up to 15 feet tall with roots stretching 10 feet underground.
The Oakland Invasive Species Task Force, or OPIS, leads the fight against phragmites. OPIS is very active and their mission is to protect lakes, streams and wetlands. It also works to educate homeowners, businesses and government agencies how to fight the invaders.
North Oakland Headwater Land Conservancy is also fighting invasive species to protect and conserve the woods, fields, streams and other natural resources in the headwaters area of the Clinton, Shiawassee, Huron and Flint Rivers.
For more information, visit www.oaklandphragmites.com.