A small group of volunteers converged on the upper portion of the Trethewey Channel to tackle one of the Lower Mainland’s most persistent invasive species – reed canary grass.
Three dedicated individuals took part in the project on Friday, Feb. 20, with support and oversight from Alouette River Management Society watershed project manager, Kristen Munk, to try to rid the area of the grass that spreads aggressively in wetland and riparian habitats.
According to the Alouette River Management Society, the upper portion of the channel was previously infilled with this invasive grass, that quickly out-competes native vegetation and reduces habitat quality for wildlife.
Then, in August, 2024, the area excavated to restore proper water flow. It was replanted with native species to stabilize the banks and reduce erosion.
The excavated backfill was shaped into a berm.
“Because this newly restored area has no tree cover and is fully exposed to sunlight, it’s especially vulnerable to reed canary grass regrowth,” explained the society online.
To prevent reed canary grass from re-establishing, the volunteers installed a thick black PVC vinyl tarp, that is safe for aquatic environments, over the berm and secured it into the ground.
The tarp will remain in place for at least a year to suppress and kill off the invasive root systems beneath.
“This work is part of our ongoing invasive species management efforts aimed at suppressing reed canary grass and improving conditions for native riparian vegetation and fish habitat,” said ARMS communications and engagement manager Sophie Sparrow.
Next month, ARMS will be planting native trees and fast-growing shrubs behind the berm to create a natural barrier and establish canopy shade.
It is one of the most effective long-term ways to limit reed canary grass growth, said the society.
However, the society added, reed canary grass can be found throughout riparian areas across the Lower Mainland, making full eradication extremely challenging.
“Targeted measures like this help slow its spread and protect restored habitat from being overtaken,” the society said.
Another group will be targeting the Trethewey Channel in Maple Ridge this coming weekend, this time taking aim at the removal of Himalayan blackberry plants.
The Lower Mainland Green Team is looking for volunteers to help remove the plants, which, the group is hoping will restore salmon spawning habitat.
No experience is necessary to participate and you can help out for as long as you would like.
The group will be meeting at 9:45 a.m. – rain or shine – on Saturday, March 7, near 13193 216 St., Maple Ridge. And, they will be working until 1 p.m.
Tools, gloves, snacks, and educational instruction will be provided.
It is recommended those participating wear long sleeves, long pants, and closed-toe shoes.
“Whether you’re looking for fresh air, exercise, volunteer hours, or a chance to meet like-minded people, there’s something in it for everyone,” said the Lower Mainland Green Team online.
To sign up go to: https://www.meetup.com/the-lower-mainland-green-team/events/311552185/.
Or, email: Max@GreenTeamsCanada.ca, for more information.