Phragmites

Pictured in the background of this picture(and one right in front) is Phragmites. I thought it would be interesting to tell you about these invasive plants that have literally taken over the marsh areas at Lake Erie Metropark. In the right foreground of the photo are the common cattails.
Phragmites are a perennial grass, a common reed that grows in wetland areas. It is a very invasive species and even though it looks attractive it is the bane of the marshlands. It chokes out other species and takes over the whole marsh. This picture was taken from the Cherry Island Trail. On the Fox Run Trail there are several look-outs that are totally obscured by these tall grasses. At one time you could look out over the marsh and see birds and water fowl but now the view is obstructed.
The park received a grant to have the plant sprayed and that was done this fall. They were sprayed from the air and by hand in smaller areas. Now, the plan is to burn all the treated areas in the spring. It will take several years for the marsh to recover and again grow in it's natural state. Any other plants or animal that do not survive the burning will eventually return.