Invasive plants in Georgian Bay and What You Can Do / Resources
Phragmites
Phragmites is one of the main invasive species in the Georgian Bay area. There has been lots of remediation and prevention work done for the phragmites problem, please check out our Phragmites Pages and the work from Georgian Bay Forever.
For more information check out these information pages
- Georgian Bay Forever: Phragmites Management
- Georgian Bay Association: Phragmites Network
- Ontario Phragmites Working Group
Ornamental Grasses
Ornamental grasses, such as Silver Grass, are brought in for landscaping or planted along road barriers. These grasses will out compete native plants for space and light. They also increase fire risk and limit nutrients reaching the soil as they have a long degradation period.
For more information check out these information pages
- Georgian Bay Forever: Ornamental Grass Fact sheet
- Ontario’s Invading Species Awareness program: Miscanthus spp.
Purple Loosestrife
Purple loosestrife is a plant that invades wetlands, roadsides and disturbed areas. These plants outcompete other native plants for resources and habitat (soil, sunlight, nutrients, space, etc) and reduce that habitat for bird nests and may limit food resources.
In addition to the impacts on the other species around them the purple loosestrife alters the physical and chemical environment around them. They impact the amount of nutrients in the system (and downstream) as they decompose quickly.
There are serious implications on wetland health from the presence of purple loosestrife, they can impact water levels and the natural function of the wetland. Wetlands provide natural habitats for any species and the presence of the purpose loosestrife can impact these habitats. Patches of purple loosestrife can also impair boat traffic.
For more information check out these information pages
Giant Hogweed
Giant Hogweed is an invasive species of plant that is found generally along roadsides, ditches and streams. In addition to being an invasive plant Giant Hogweed has very serious health risks. The sap of the plant can cause serious burns on your skin when exposed to sunlight. If you find Giant Hogweed you should report it to a professional for removal and not to go near it, especially without protective gear.
For more information check out these information pages
- Invasive Species Center: Giant Hogweed
- Government of Ontario Giant Hogweed
- Ontario Invasive Plants Council Giant Hogweed: Best Management Practices in Ontario
Even more invasive species in Ontario
European Frog-bit
For more information check out these information pages
Japanese Knot-Weed
For more information check out these information pages
Yellow Iris
For more information check out these information pages
Water Soldier
This could become a big issue in Georgian Bay as it is present within the Trent Severn currently, which connects to Georgian Bay.
For more information check out these information pages