Invasive phragmites and the wetlands of tomorrow

What does the future look like for phragmites and wetlands?

It seems that we are looking at a “new normal” and phragmites will continue to infiltrate wetlands across the province. But in our search for answers, we found reasons for hope too.

We’ve learned that rehabilitated wetlands rebound swiftly and native plants, birds and animals return once the dense reeds are gone.

We’re also far from alone. There is promising, new science led by the University of Toronto in Canada—and developed at Cornell University in the United States over the past two decades—which may provide a long-term solution to help manage the invasive phragmites population.

And we’ve connected with other “phrag fighters” like Nancy Vidler and her team of volunteer vigilantes who have led the charge on local phragmites control in Lambton Shores. And like Ernie and Angela Lynch, who are rallying their neighbours and local councils to be ready for an influx of phragmites in Dufferin County, their central Ontario community.

We’re confident that the rapid rise of phragmites can be curbed if we continue to work together. DUC is uniquely positioned to help reduce the impacts of non-native phragmites, thanks to our in-house science experts and our deeply felt commitment to protect our thousands of wetland projects and the landowners who look to us for leadership in defending those wetlands.

What can you do about phragmites?

Invasive species are changing the places we love. And you can help.

1. Clean your gear. When you’re hiking, boating, fishing or other outdoor activities, be sure to clean your boots and equipment so you don’t accidentally walk away with invasive seeds or plants.
2. Report sightings right from your smartphone. Keep an eye on the shoreline, wetlands or shallow bays—at home, at the cottage, or on nature trips. Report sightings on the Ontario app for iOS or Android devices: Early Detection and Distribution Mapping System (EDD Maps).
3. Join the phrag fighters. There are many resources to get you started. The Ontario Phragmites Working Group and the Great Lakes Phragmites Collaborative have resources to learn about the plant and connect with other people. The Great Lakes Marsh Monitoring Program invites volunteers to collect information in coastal and inland marshes as “citizen scientists.”

Inspiration for this article is due in part to the outstanding series, How do recent changes in Lake Erie affect birds? Part one: Invasive Phragmites by Doug Tozer and Gregor Beck of Birds Canada.