There’s a growing group of like-minded residents ready to take the fight to the out of control phragmites.
Ernie and Angela Lynch, owners of a farm in Mulmur, have launched a group called the Mulmur Melancthon Mono Amaranth Phrag Fighters.
Their goal – eliminate the invasive grass.
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Phragmites arrived along the east coast about 200 years ago and has spread westward, overtaking wetlands around the Great Lakes.
The tall grass that is tan or beige in colour with blue-green leaves and large, dense seedheads, destroys ecosystems, provides poor habitat and food supplies for wildlife, as well as increases fire hazards.
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Phragmites produces up to 2,000 seeds per seed head per year. It can grow more than 15 feet tall and spreads quickly while outcompeting native species for water and nutrients.
Phragmites also release toxins from its roots into the soil to hinder the growth of and kill surrounding plants.
Ernie says that within in an hour they were able to clip an estimated 400,000 seeds.
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The Mulmur Melancthon Mono Amaranth Phrag Fighters Facebook group is growing in support. Meanwhile, Ernie and Angela are meeting with municipal and conservation officials to collectively work together.
To learn more about the invasive plant visit invadingspecies.com/invasive-phragmites/
