An invasive plant is extending its reach further into northern Ontario, prompting local communities to collaborate on strategies for detection and management before it establishes a strong presence. The Junction Creek Stewardship Committee, based in Sudbury, organized a workshop in partnership with the Invasive Phragmites Control Centre to educate individuals on identifying invasive phragmites and preventing its spread. Invasive phragmites, or common reed, can form dense clusters that outcompete native vegetation and disrupt wetland ecosystems. Jayden McGleish, a field supervisor at the Invasive Phragmites Control Centre, highlighted the plant’s encroachment into northern Ontario, including significant patches emerging in Sudbury.
The rapid growth of invasive phragmites can outcompete native flora like cattails and bulrushes, creating challenges for wildlife movement. McGleish noted instances of turtles and frogs struggling to navigate through invasive phragmites, leading to negative impacts on their natural habitats. Additionally, the plant’s proliferation can encroach on recreational areas, encroaching on shorelines and hindering access. Notably, invasive phragmites can grow along roads and even penetrate asphalt, causing infrastructure damage and maintenance costs for municipalities.
While the invasive plant is more prevalent in southern Ontario, sightings are increasingly reported in northern communities such as Sudbury, Sault Ste. Marie, Timmins, and Thunder Bay. Erik Barr, a contracted employee with Conservation Sudbury, emphasized the importance of proactive measures in controlling the spread of invasive phragmites in Sudbury before it escalates out of control. Barr highlighted ongoing efforts to manage the plant in the region.
Distinguishing between invasive and native phragmites is crucial in monitoring and addressing the plant’s presence. Educating the public on these distinctions aids in tracking and mapping invasive phragmites, particularly in areas like roads and railways where plant material can be inadvertently transported. Jaclyn Groom, a philanthropy coordinator at the Junction Creek Stewardship Committee, emphasized the significance of differentiating between native and invasive phragmites to prevent unintentional spread through human activities and environmental conditions.
Treatment of invasive phragmites involves utilizing backpack sprayers and a herbicide known as Timberline for effective control. Chuck Simpson, manual controls manager at the Invasive Phragmites Control Centre, highlighted the success of treatment methods in reducing invasive phragmites populations. Despite the potential for regrowth in subsequent years, the treatment can achieve a high kill rate, supporting efforts to curb the plant’s expansion. McGleish and Simpson demonstrated treatment techniques during a workshop, showcasing the effectiveness of the approach in managing invasive phragmites populations.
