A major effort to preserve local wildlife habitats is set to ignite this month at the Warwick Conservation Area.
Between March 14 and 31, the Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC) and the St. Clair Region Conservation Authority (SCRCA) will conduct a professional prescribed burn.
It targets a massive and dense stand of invasive phragmites, which is an aggressive European grass that has severely degraded the site’s natural wetland and poses risks for nearby communities.
It's hoped the burn will help restore critical wetlands for species like the great blue heron, wood duck, and several types of turtles and frogs.
Habitat Restoration Manager for the Nature Conservancy of Canada Kyle Borrowman said prescribed burns are an essential tool in habitat restoration and one of many used against invasive phragmites.
“Collaboration is critical in restoring healthy wetlands like the one within the Warwick Conservation Area and we look forward to working with SCRCA to remove the dense stands of invasive phragmites," said Borrowman. "Together, we are mitigating risk of uncontrolled fire in the future, protecting local communities, and ensuring native wildlife can thrive."
By using an intentionally set fire, experts can clear away the dead stalks that currently block sunlight from reaching the soil and water.
This process is essential for reviving the wetland’s natural function, which not only provides a home for wildlife but also acts as a natural filter to clean water and prevent local flooding.
The thick, dry phragmites stalks are highly flammable and pose a significant wildfire risk if left unmanaged.
The burn may take place during the day or night and could last up to two days, depending on the weather conditions.
The Warwick Conservation Area will be strictly closed to the public during this time.
This project is supported by the Government of Canada and is a key part of the Ontario Phragmites Action program, aimed at protecting the remaining 30 per cent of Southern Ontario’s original wetlands.
