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The Coastal Program is teaming up with Ducks Unlimited on a project to manage exotic invasive plants and restore Lake Erie coastal wetlands in Northwest Ohio. Over the next two years, efforts will focus on removing exotic invasive species invasive species
An invasive species is any plant or animal that has spread or been introduced into a new area where they are, or could, cause harm to the environment, economy, or human, animal, or plant health. Their unwelcome presence can destroy ecosystems and cost millions of dollars.
Learn more about invasive species at Cedar Point National Wildlife Refuge, Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge, and surrounding areas. The project aims to clear 500 acres of phragmites, purple loosestrife, flowering rush, and Amazon frog bit (limnobium) through herbicide application, mowing, and burning.
Controlling aquatic invasive vegetation in the Great Lakes is a persistent challenge. Exotic invasive vegetation disrupts wetland ecosystems by forming dense monocultures, outcompeting native plants for resources, altering water levels, reducing wildlife habitat and reducing biological diversity. The Coastal Program will support installation of water control structures to aid in controlling water levels, allowing wetland managers to adapt to the impacts of changing environmental conditions and prevent the re-establishment of this exotic invasive plants.
Among the species that will benefit are endemic shore birds and plants such as the federally listed piping plover, rufa red knot, and eastern prairie fringed orchid. This project will enhance the ecological health of the wetlands and improve vital habitats for a diversity of fish and wildlife during breeding and migration.
