The Ontario Phragmites Action program, bolstered by a significant investment from the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources, is supporting 38 new collaborative projects to help combat invasive Phragmites impacts across the province.  Crescent Harbour Association is one of them!

These initiatives, supported by the Invasive Phragmites Control Fund with a total investment of more than $650,000, will increase invasive species action by community groups, Indigenous organizations, and municipalities across Ontario. (see more in this article)

Ontario Phragmites Action program celebrates success in supporting local projects for collaborative actions across the province

We are so pleased to receive $2500 towards our project for this year and an invitation to apply again next year for Phase 2.

Besides the phragmites making the property inaccessible, and impinging on the tennis courts, here is why we should care about this invasive species.

“Phragmites, also known as the European common reed, is one of the most aggressive invasive plants in Canada. It rapidly spreads and forms dense stands, outcompeting native vegetation, altering habitats, and impacting biodiversity. Phragmites disrupt wetlands, reduces habitat for wildlife, and impedes drainage in agricultural lands, leading to significant ecological and economic consequences. Managing and controlling Phragmites is crucial for preserving natural ecosystems and supporting the well-being of communities in Ontario.”  

In the next 6 weeks, you will see a specialist company, Restoration Artists, spraying, then cutting the phragmites. This will be our first crack at removing them. The plan is to do this again next summer, and begin to plant wetlands plants to bring this land back to a beautiful part of the watershed.

A big thanks to Invasive Phragmites Control Fund and the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources.

Invasive Species Centre | Sault Sainte Marie ON | Facebook