A phrag-tastic invasive Phragmites removal!
We had a phrag-tastic day last week in Moncton removing invasive Phragmites!
In collaboration with the Nature Conservancy of Canada, the Fundy Biosphere Region, and the Petitcodiac Watershed Alliance, we targeted two patches of phragmites along the Petitcodiac River using two methods – digging out the entire plant as well as cutting down the plant and covering the stalks with tarps. Going forward, the patches will be monitored to see which method may be the most effective for tackling other patches.
Phragmites (also known as European Common Reed) forms dense monocultures that outcompetes native plant species and alters wildlife habitat, which is particularly concerning for wetland ecosystems. The Moncton-Riverview area is considered a hot spot for phragmites in New Brunswick, although isolated patches have been recorded across the province.
Thank you to the New Brunswick Wildlife Trust Fund for funding this project and to TransAqua for allowing us to access the phragmites patches from their property.
Click here to visit our phragmites page to learn more about this invasive plant.