Invasive phragmites are causing problems in wetlands across the province, and are already spreading in Lake Nipissing. phragmites, which appear as tall reed grass, also have no natural predators to keep their numbers down.
Once they appear, the only sure way of getting rid of them is to dig, cut or spade them out with a shovel.
See: Battle to stop the spread of invasive phragmites continues at area lakes and rivers
And: Phragmites: the 'bad boy' of invasive species
This very tall plant has been showing up with an alarmingly rapid rate of density and spread in local ditches, shorelines and wetlands, and is a cause of financial concern to municipalities.
With this in mind, the Friends of Laurier Woods will host Dr. Michael J. McTavish, University of Toronto, as its guest speaker at its Annual General Meeting next month. McTavish will be speaking on the use of biological controls in the effort to eradicate phragmites.
The aggressive plant. which spreads quickly and out-competes native species for water and nutrients, is Canada’s worst invasive plant. It releases toxins from its roots into the soil to hinder the growth of and kill surrounding plants. Invasive phragmites is a perennial grass that has been damaging Ontario’s biodiversity, wetlands, and beaches for decades.
Unfortunately, it has invaded Laurier Woods Conservation Area and numerous other locations throughout the region.
The AGM takes place on Thursday, March 23, 6:30-8:30p.m at the Rorab Shrine Club, 1260 Brookes Street.
The evening will begin with a reception at 6:30. The Friends of Laurier Woods business meeting will run from 7-7:30, followed by the guest speaker. During the business meeting the Board of Directors, consisting of 21 volunteer members, is elected for the year. New members, those interested in the protection of this provincially significant wetland, are always welcome. Board members serve for a minimum one-year term and may also participate on any of the committees established to oversee the planning and development of this 240-acre site.
Laurier Woods Conservation Area, within the heart of the City of North Bay, is owned and managed in partnership with the Friends of Laurier Woods and the North Bay-Mattawa Conservation Authority. The 250 acre Conservation Area, encompassing a provincially significant wetland, rocky outcrops and upland forest, is a sanctuary to a broad range of wetland and woodland creatures, including migrating birds. An 8km trail network spans the site offering excellent opportunities for hiking and nature appreciation.
Attendance at the Annual General Meeting requires a paid-in-full membership for the 2023 year. Memberships are $20/individual or $30/family and can be purchased at the door, or on-line at www.laurierwoods.com.
