Invasive Phragmites
Invasive Phragmites is an aggressive invasive plant that can spread quickly and form dense stands that crowd out native plants and vegetation.
The City of Timmins is working with the Mattagami Region Conservation Authority (MRCA) and other partners to help identify, monitor, prevent, and manage invasive Phragmites. The City is part of the Timmins Phragmites Management Area (PMA) through Ontario Phragmites Action (OPA) program coordinated by the Invasive Species Centre.
What is Invasive Phragmites?
Invasive Phragmites, also known as European common reed, is a tall perennial grass that can grow rapidly and form very dense stands.
It can grow in wetlands, along shorelines, roadside ditches, in drainage areas, disturbed areas, parks and open spaces, and other wet or dry areas.
Invasive Phragmites spreads through underground rhizomes, seeds, and plant fragments. Once established, it can be difficult and costly to manage.
Why is it a concern?
Invasive Phragmites can form dense, nearly continuous stands that crowd out native plants and reduce the habitat available to wildlife, including birds and other species. By altering natural habitats, interfering with drainage, and spreading rapidly through seeds, roots, rhizomes, and contaminated equipment or soil, invasive Phragmites can significantly reduce local biodiversity and disrupt health ecosystems.
What can you do to help?
Report it! If you suspect you have found invasive Phragmites, contact Service Timmins at 705-264-1331.
The MRCA is the lead for the Timmins Phragmites Management Area (PMA) and works with the City through the Ontario Phragmites Action Program.
When reporting a suspected stand, please provide the location, photographs (if possible), and any other information that may help identify the site.
Please don't:
- Plant invasive Phragmites
- Transplant Phragmites
- Use Phragmites for decorations or crafts
- Use Phragmites as landscaping material
- Use Phragmites for hunting blinds or hunting stands
- Compost invasive Phragmites
- Move soil containing Phragmites roots or rhizomes
- Transport loose Phragmites plant material
- Leave plant material from your vehicle, trailer, boat, or equipment before traveling to another location
Control Methods
Management of invasive Phragmites may include manual spading, cutting, and herbicide treatment depending on the size, density, and environmental sensitivity of the site.
Manual: Manual spading can be effective for small populations or sensitive areas, while cutting can help reduce biomass, prevent seed production, and support other treatment methods.
Herbicide: Herbicide treatment is identified by the Invasive Species Best Management Practices in Ontario and Ministry of Transportation's Environmental Guide for Managing Invasive Phragmites as one of the most effective management options, particularly where mechanical methods are not practical.
Herbicide applications on City property will be completed by qualified and licensed contractors who will select the appropriate product and application method based on site conditions and applicable regulatory requirements.
Multi-Year Management: Invasive Phragmites can be very persistent. Successful management may require multiple years of treatment and monitoring. The City will prioritize long-term management rather than relying on one-time treatment.