Poisonous Plants Along the Pine River
Given that it is summertime and many of you will soon be exploring the woods, we thought we'd take an opportunity to talke about poisonouse plants in Michigan. The Mitten state is home to a wide variety of toxic flora, totaling 22 different species according to the most extensive list I found online here: https://www.progardentips.com/poisonous-plants-in-michigan/. Today, we'll focus on just two of them, both of which we have personally come across in the Pine River Valley.
First on the list is Poison Ivy. It's a commonly encountered plant, but identifying it can be a challenge. People often describe it as having "three pointed green leaves", but that is not very descriptive considering how many plants have three leaves. It's a good idea to study poisonous plants before exploring new areas. Allergic reactions to Poison Ivy can vary greatly from person to person, with some individuals having no reaction at all, while others experience more severe responses. I recall a mission trip to Kentucky where a friend ended up with Poison Ivy and had an intense reaction, requiring daily bandage changes due to the amount of ooze from his rash. To avoid such situations, we recommend using a product called Tecnu (can be found on Amazon here). Washing with Tecnu as instructed within 24-48 hours after possible exposure can prevent the rash from breaking out and leave no signs of contact with Poison Ivy.
Next up is the Giant Hogweed, another toxic plant found near the Pine River Valley. It is somewhat easier to identify due to its large size and distinct flowers. However, it poses a more significant threat to humans than Poison Ivy, Poison Oak, or Poison Sumac. The sap of the Giant Hogweed can cause photo-dermatitis, making the skin extremely sensitive to sunlight. Within a day or two of exposure, blisters may appear on the affected areas. In severe cases, the sap can even cause blindness if it comes into contact with the eyes. If you think you've come into contact with Giant Hogweed, wash the affected area with soap and cold water, and keep it covered from sunlight for 48 hours. Act quickly!
This post is not meant to scare you from spending time in the Manistee National Forest, but rather to encourage you to spend time outside in a safe, responsible manner! We have spent countless hours in the Pine River corridor and are not concerned about these plants, because we know what to look for. Enjoy your time in Michigan's Great Outdoors!