Communities in northern Ontario are taking action to address the increasing spread of an invasive plant species before it establishes a strong foothold. The Junction Creek Stewardship Committee, based in Sudbury, recently organized a workshop in collaboration with the Invasive Phragmites Control Centre to educate individuals on identifying and managing invasive phragmites, also known as common reed. This plant has the ability to form dense stands 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 Sudbury, where noticeable patches have begun to emerge.
Invasive phragmites can rapidly overtake native flora like cattails and bulrushes, impeding wildlife movement in affected areas. McGleish expressed concern over the challenges faced by turtles and frogs navigating through these dense patches, leading to some unfortunate incidents. Furthermore, the plant’s growth along shorelines poses threats to recreational spaces by limiting access. Its ability to thrive in various environments, including roads and asphalt, can incur additional costs for municipalities in terms of damage to drainage systems and road infrastructure.
While the prevalence of invasive phragmites is more pronounced in southern Ontario, its presence is increasingly being observed in northern regions such as Sudbury, Sault Ste. Marie, Timmins, and Thunder Bay. Erik Barr, a contract worker with Conservation Sudbury, emphasized the importance of proactive measures to contain the spread of this invasive species before it spreads uncontrollably. Barr highlighted ongoing efforts to manage the plant growth in Sudbury.
Distinguishing between invasive and native phragmites is crucial in monitoring and addressing the spread of the plant. Characteristics such as leaf width, stem thickness, and coloration serve as key identifiers. Jaclyn Groom, from the Junction Creek Stewardship Committee, emphasized the significance of public education in distinguishing between the two varieties. She pointed out that the inadvertent transportation of plant material through vehicles and equipment poses a risk of further spread, especially along roads and railways.
Effective treatment methods for invasive phragmites were also discussed during the workshop. Chuck Simpson, the manual controls manager at the Invasive Phragmites Control Centre, reassured that Sudbury’s situation is manageable due to the presence of native phragmites. The workshop featured a demonstration of treatment techniques using backpack sprayers and herbicides, aiming to achieve a high kill rate of the invasive plants. Despite potential regrowth in subsequent years, the treatment demonstrated promising results with visible plant deterioration within weeks of application.