Also employed by the Conservation District, Jill Fresjes is an invasive plant specialist.
 
The Benzie Conservation District currently collaborates with the Northwest Michigan Invasive Species Network on the inventory, monitoring, and control of invasive plants. While there are number of invasive species in Benzie County, the Conservation District is concentrating on  four:
 
      Japanese knotweed
  •       Garlic mustard
  •       Phragmites
  •       Oriental bittersweet
 
Lacking natural enemies, invasives can take over an area to the detriment of native plants that are part of a habitat's food chain. Thus the exotic species do not support the insects that are eaten by native birds, and on up the chain. Japanese knotweed can grow through concrete, while phragmites can fill in a marsh previously occupied by all sorts of wildlife. Homeowners seeking more information about pulling garlic mustard or getting rid of other invasive species are urged to contact the Conservation District.