Phragmites line the Howard Watson Nature Trail. Photo submitted by City of Sarnia. Phragmites line the Howard Watson Nature Trail. Photo submitted by City of Sarnia.
Sarnia

Nature Trail To Be Closed For Phragmites Eradication

Weather permitting, the Howard Watson Nature Trail will be closed off between Michigan Ave. and Exmouth St. on Thursday and Friday for the removal of invasive phragmites.

Sarnia Manager of Parks, Forestry and Horticulture Patti Ross says they'll be spraying with pesticide and then planting a seed mix so native species can grow back.

She says that area has been a problem with fires in the past.

"The problem with the phragmites on the Howard Watson Nature Trail is that they're crowding out some of our natural heritage species," says Ross. "When it dies off for the winter, it creates this very highly flammable biomass. So, after this is sprayed we intend to cut it again and then we'll just spot spray it next year. We're hoping for a 90% kill and then we'll touch it up next year."

Ross says there will be signs posted in the area, and a spotter will be on site.

She says crews will be doing similar work in Canatara Park in early September.

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