Phragmites removal closes parts of Snyder's Flats wetland

Parts of Snyder's Flats wetland in Woolwich will be off-limits to the public this week as the Grand River Conservation Authority uses a herbicide to try to contain an outbreak of phragmites, an invasive reed that's taking over wetlands across North America. 

• Snyder's Flats transforms from aggregate pit to ecosystem

The work will be done over a period of two to three days and weather permitting it should be finished sometime between Sept.14 and Sept. 25, the GRCA said in a release. 

Signs will be posted near the parking lot on Snyder's Flats Road and along the trail network, indicating which portions of the wetland will be closed off to hikers, the agency said. 

Phragmites is an aggressive plant that has quickly established a foothold in wetlands and drainage ditches at the side of the road across North America. 

The Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources says the reed, which comes from Eurasia, can quickly spread by producing large quantities of seed and out competes native species by releasing a toxin into the soil in order to hinder the growth and kill other plants. 

As such, conservation officials say the reed fundamentally alters habitats, making it more difficult for native species of birds and fish to survive.