Prince Edward County will begin treating invasive phragmites next week as part of an effort to protect local wetlands, waterways and native vegetation.
Treatment is scheduled for Aug. 17 to 21, weather permitting, in areas where established populations of the invasive European Common Reed have been identified.
The County of Prince Edward, Invasive Phragmites Control Centre and Quinte Conservation are working together on the project.
Treatment will take place along municipal road allowances and properties, including sections of County roads 2, 3, 4, 5, 10, 19, 23 and 28. Other locations include Bakker, Gardenville, Harbard, Vienna, Oram, Ridge, Miller, Royal, North Big Island, Salisbury, Marsh and Olde Stone roads.
Licensed applicators will use pesticides in accordance with federal and provincial rules.
Officials say controlling phragmites will help protect biodiversity, wildlife habitat and shoreline access. Left untreated, the invasive plant can form dense stands that displace native vegetation and affect drainage and water movement.
