Fighting back against Canada’s ‘worst’ invasive plant

Originally published by InsideHalton.com, this article highlights the growing threat of invasive phragmites across Ontario—an issue that is increasingly visible along Georgian Bay’s shoreline. For our communities, this isn’t abstract: it’s a direct challenge to coastal ecosystems, water access, and the natural landscapes we’re working to protect.

How Ontario is fighting back against Canada’s ‘worst’ invasive plant

By Mike Pearson, Insidehaltoncom

There are more than 60 projects running in Ontario to stop invasive phragmites, Canada’s “worst” invasive plant. Learn how to identify, report and stop the spread.

Phragmites, also known as common reed or elephant grass, has been touted as Canada’s worst invasive plant since 2005.

You’ve probably seen it along the roadside or near wetlands, growing up to five metres in a thick, dense stand.

Invasive phragmites has the ability to crowd out native vegetation, block sightlines and alter wildlife habitat.

Canada’s worst invasive plant

In 2005, Agriculture and Agrifood Canada identified invasive phragmites as Canada’s “worst” invasive plant species.

Also called European common reed, invasive phragmites was first introduced along the eastern seaboard in the late 1700s or early 1800s.

The plant can be found across Ontario, with sightings as far north as Georgian Bay and Lake Superior.

Why not all phragmites species are invasive

Not all phragmites species are invasive. Native phragmites, also known as Phragmites Americanus, grows in lower densities along with other plants, and is considered crucial for healthy wetlands, according to the Ontario Phragmites Action program.

The Invasive Species Centre estimates it costs about $1,100 to manage one linear kilometre of invasive phragmites in roadside ditches.

Ontario’s Ministry of Natural Resources notes invasive phragmites outcompetes native species for water and nutrients. It has tan coloured stems with blue-green leaves and dense seed heads. It spreads quickly through wind-dispersed seeds, or root material found on contaminated equipment or soil.

Invasive Phragmites Control Fund

After decades of concern, the Invasive Phragmites Control Fund is making a difference in the fight against this troublesome plant.

With support from Ontario’s Ministry of Natural Resources, the fund supports local on-the-ground action against invasive phragmites. Funding ranges from $2,500 to $25,000, with exceptional projects involving multiple agencies funded up to $50,000.

The Ontario Phragmites Action program (OPA) is a co-ordinated effort to combat invasive phragmites in communities across Ontario.

“Thanks to an investment by Ontario’s Ministry of Natural Resources to develop the Ontario Phragmites Action (OPA) program, the Nature Conservancy of Canada and the Invasive Species Centre are leading Ontario’s largest habitat restoration program and tackling one of Canada’s worst invasive species,” OPA said in an April project update.

Dozens of projects underway across Ontario

More than 60 invasive phragmites control projects are running in communities across Ontario this year.

In Mississauga, a project is underway to treat invasive phragmites at targeted sites to enhance biodiversity and resilience of the natural heritage system.

A control project in Durham Region aims to collaboratively develop a joint comprehensive management plan for invasive phragmites through mapping, verification, and prioritization with stakeholders.

A First Nations control project in Essex County aims to empower Indigenous communities to restore balance by controlling invasive phragmites and protecting relationships between people, water and wildlife.

The Town of Ajax is managing invasive phragmites at a priority management location adjacent to the Carruthers Marsh, a Great Lakes coastal wetland.

In Brighton, Friends of Presqu’ile Provincial Park have raised funds to maintain trails and boardwalks, provide educational outreach programs and to assist in combatting invasive species, including phragmites. Friends of Presqu’ile are overseeing efforts to perform herbicide treatment of phragmites and will cut and dispose of the invasive plants.

How to report sightings

Learn how to recognize invasive phragmites by visiting the Ontario Phragmites Action program website.

Report sightings of invasive phragmites through the EDDMapS or iNaturalist websites and mobile device applications. Your report should include an accurate location of the sighting, complete with photos.

Stop the spread of invasive phragmites

The Ontario Phragmites Action program reminds outdoor enthusiasts to brush off hiking boots and clean all recreational equipment — like bikes, all-terrain vehicles, boats and other watercraft — to help avoid spreading invasive phragmites.

Last summer, the organization launched a billboard campaign called “Dude, Where’s My Dock?” to focus attention on the invasive plant for anyone headed to cottage country.

Visit ontariophragmitesaction.ca to find the project closest to you.