An unwelcome plant species is expanding its territory into northern Ontario, prompting local communities to take action in identifying and managing it before it establishes a stronghold. The Junction Creek Stewardship Committee, based in Sudbury, organized a workshop recently in collaboration with the Invasive Phragmites Control Centre to educate individuals on recognizing invasive phragmites and preventing its proliferation.

Invasive phragmites, also known as common reed, have the potential to form dense clusters that outcompete native vegetation and disrupt the balance of wetland ecosystems. Jayden McGleish, a field supervisor at the Invasive Phragmites Control Centre, highlighted the plant’s encroachment into northern Ontario, citing significant patches emerging even in Sudbury.

The invasive plant poses a threat by outcompeting native flora like cattails and bulrushes, creating obstacles for wildlife movement. McGleish mentioned instances where turtles and frogs struggled to navigate through dense phragmites, leading to unfortunate outcomes for some species. Moreover, the plant’s growth along roads and through asphalt can incur costs for municipalities in repairing damaged infrastructure.

While invasive phragmites are more prevalent in southern regions, their presence is increasingly noted in northern communities such as Sudbury, Sault Ste. Marie, Timmins, and Thunder Bay. Erik Barr, a contract worker with Conservation Sudbury, emphasized the importance of proactive measures in containing the spread of the invasive plant in Sudbury.

Distinguishing between invasive and native phragmites is crucial in monitoring and managing the plant effectively. Erik Barr highlighted key differences in leaf structure and stem characteristics between the two varieties. Educating the public on these distinctions is vital for preventing unintentional spread, especially along transportation routes like roads and railways.

Efforts to control invasive phragmites include employing herbicide treatments using backpack sprayers, as demonstrated by Chuck Simpson from the Invasive Phragmites Control Centre. Although the invasive plant can rebound after treatment, the application of herbicides like Timberline can achieve a high kill rate. Monitoring and timely interventions are essential to curbing the spread of invasive phragmites in northern Ontario.