ONTARIO – As Canadians prepare for outdoor adventures this Canada Day, a new campaign is urging vigilance against the unintentional spread of Phragmites, also known as European common reed – one of Ontario’s most destructive invasive plants. The “Dude, where’s my dock?” initiative aims to educate the public on preventing the proliferation of this aggressive species while enjoying Ontario’s natural amenities.
Phragmites is a rapidly spreading perennial grass that outcompetes native flora for vital water and nutrients. Its roots release biochemicals that actively inhibit the growth of surrounding plants, leading to a significant loss of biodiversity. Often found in wetlands, these tall, dense plants are characterized by their tan-coloured stalks, blue-green leaves, and large, feathery seed heads. They spread vigorously through both seeds, carried by wind and water, and root fragments, which can be easily transported by vehicles, heavy equipment, and even people.
The ecological impact of Phragmites is severe. It threatens at-risk native species, such as the Blanding’s turtle, by destroying their habitat and food sources. Beyond environmental damage, the plant also carries substantial economic costs for municipalities, with the Ontario Invasive Species Centre estimating it costs approximately $1,100 to manage just one linear kilometre of Phragmites in roadside ditches. In 2019, municipal spending on Phragmites control in Ontario was estimated to exceed $2.8 million annually.
To raise awareness, the Ontario Phragmites Action program has launched its “Dude, where’s my dock?” billboard campaign, visible along highways 400, 11, and 60, targeting cottage-country bound travelers. The campaign seeks to engage a broader audience beyond environmental managers, highlighting Phragmites as a “road trip ruiner” that can obstruct lake views, overtake beaches, and limit water access.
“Preventing further spread and submitting reports to complement ongoing mapping are a crucial part of the fight against Phragmites,” stated Chelsea McIsaac on behalf of the Ontario Phragmites Action program.
How You Can Help Prevent the Spread:
Before and after your Canada Day outdoor excursions, individuals are encouraged to take simple preventative measures:
- Clean Your Gear: Brush off hiking boots, bikes, all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), boats, and other recreational equipment to remove any attached seeds or plant fragments.
- Stay on Trails: Avoid venturing off designated trails in natural areas, as this can disturb habitats and help spread the plant.
Report Sightings:
Learning to identify invasive Phragmites is key. The Ontario Phragmites Action program encourages reporting sightings through the EDDMapS or iNaturalist websites and mobile apps. When reporting, include an accurate location and clear photos of the sighting.
The Ontario Phragmites Action program is a province-wide collaborative effort involving conservation authorities, municipalities, Indigenous communities, environmental organizations, and local volunteers, all working to mitigate the impact of this pervasive invasive species.