WHAT IS A CISMA OR CWMA?

CISMAs are Cooperative Invasive Species Management Areas, also known as CWMAs, Cooperative Weed Management Areas. They first became prevalent in the western US, but over the past decade have become more widespread in the eastern states, including the Midwest. Sometimes called Coalitions, Partnerships, or Councils, CISMAs are formed to collectively combat the problem of invasive species spreading across the landscape. They can vary greatly in their geographic range, activity level, and focus, and are usually comprised of representatives from various governmental agencies, non-profits, and concerned citizens or citizen groups. They might cover a single county, or extend over multiple counties.

CISMAs have been shown to effectively target invasive species problems by engaging local interests and addressing invasive issues across various types of land ownership. By working together at the local level, CISMAs and their partners are able to pool resources and knowledge to address mutual invasive species problems. In Indiana, the first CISMA was formed in Brown County in 2006, the Brown County Native Woodlands Project. Now, through SICIM’s Indiana Invasives Initiative, we are working to establish new CISMAs across Indiana, as well as provide resources and guidance for both new and existing CISMAs. For more information on CISMAs elsewhere in the Midwest, visit Midwest Invasive Plant Network (MIPN).