Monroe County - Identify and Reduce Invasive Species is a coalition of Monroe County citizens aimed at reducing the environmental and economic impact of invasive species in our county through education and action.

Welcome to MC-IRIS!

Invasive species are one of the greatest threats to the forests and wetlands of Monroe County, Indiana.  MC-IRIS works with landowners, educators, researchers, and agencies all over the county to protect our diverse natural areas from Invasive species.  Join us at our meetings, work days, or educational events to be part of the solution! Check our calendar for upcoming events.

Learn more about MC-IRIS

Listen to an interview with Ellen Jacquart on the 812 Podcast to learn more about what MC-IRIS does.

A brief introduction to MC-IRIS-

Check out more MC-IRIS videos here!

¿Habla español?
Our MC-IRIS brochure is now available in Spanish!

Why Should I Care About Invasive Plants?

Invasive plants harm pollinators, wildlife, and rare species.  And they cost money - $15 billion/year nationally! They can reduce your ability to enjoy hunting, fishing, mushroom collecting, bird-watching and other recreational pursuits.  Here are a few examples. 

Reduce Invasive Species Challenge - 2025

The 2025 Reduce Invasive Species Challenge will reward you for removing Callery pear, Japanese barberry, or burning bush! Learn more about how why these species are such a problem, and how to ID and control them.
New! Special MC-IRIS Grant Program Created for Schools to Remove Callery Pear and Replace With Native Trees!

2024 MC-IRIS Annual Report

Past Annual Reports may be found here

Apply For a Free Invasive Plant Survey of Your Land

Not sure if you have invasive plants on your land?  Or what to do about them if you do?  Learn more here about how to apply for a free invasive plant survey of your land.
Join MC-IRIS on Facebook to ask questions and join the conversation!
Check out the MC-IRIS Youtube Channel for lots of videos on how to identify and control invasive plants, including our popular seasonal weed lab videos.
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Report IN - and keep invasive species out!
Indiana has a great way to report and map invasive species - Report IN!  You can report invasive species on-line through the Report IN website portal, or from your smartphone by downloading the Great Lakes Early Detection Network app. Please report the invasive species you find, so we know where they are in the state.
Want to learn more about MC-IRIS? View this brief video by the Monroe County Soil and Water Conservation District about this group.
Partners: