Ducks Unlimited Canada is helping a group of Lambton Shores volunteers who have a proven track record of success in removing the invasive plant, phragmites, from the Lake Huron shoreline.
The Lambton Shores Phragmites Community Group is committed to taking back the sunsets on Lambton Shores. In recent years, they’ve watched scattered clumps of tall reeds become vast, towering stands that destroy natural aquatic habitats and block the spectacular sunset views that draw thousands of people to Lake Huron’s beaches every summer.
Chair Nancy Vidler and her team of volunteer vigilantes have led the charge on phragmites control for more than 300 acres (120 hectares) along Lake Huron. Since 2012, the award-winning community group has led an expanding strategic counter-assault against a future of degraded beaches, wetlands and waterways.
They’re working in key locations including Port Franks, Ipperwash and Lambton Centre. The rehabilitated wetland and shoreline areas are rebounding with native cattail, bulrush, sedges and aquatic plants while annual monitoring programs show increasing numbers of birds, frogs and fish in the recovering habitats.
Scaling up success for Lambton Shores
Ducks Unlimited Canada is deeply concerned about aquatic invasive plants that degrade wetlands and waterfowl habitats. It’s clear that phragmites will infiltrate aquatic habitats across the province unless local organizations take action.
This work is difficult, costly and critical. Eradicating invasive phragmites is only possible through the investment of significant resources. Our vote of confidence goes to the Lambton Shores volunteers and their plan for a phragmites-free coastline.
Support the effort at the Fight the Phrag in Lambton Shores campaign.
