Reed canary grass (Phalaris arundinacea) surrounds the an adjacent property to Reed College, the Ritmanis Pond which is located in the eastern portion of the Reed Canyon. Several years ago, this invasive species could be found all around the lake. A series of restoration practices have been done to remove this fast-growing grass with much success. The next phase of restoration is planned to focus on this area of the canyon so keep an eye out for changes!
But why is it important that this grass is removed? Reed canary grass is a threat to wetland biomes as it can outcompete native species with its thick root system. The grass, native to Europe, can quickly form dense, monocultural stands with little value for our native animal and bird species. It can grow so thick that other vegetation may be eliminated and even tree growth is impacted. When surrounding bodies of water, canary grass can lead to increased levels of silt and other solids which decrease water quality. In this area, the grass has been able to form prolific colonial patches that may eventually change the soil hydrology and impact Ritmanis Pond further.
Removal efforts require consistency and persistence. It can take up to five years to successfully remove rhizomes (below ground stems that can produce more plants), prevent productive seed dispersal, and promote native plant growth. Plants chosen to vegetate this area after removal of the invasive grass must support the local bird species that currently utilize the seeds of canary grass in their diets.
To identify this plant, look for 2-9 foot tall green or brown stalks with long tapering leaves. Reed canary grass produces purplish flowers from May-July and browns through fall and winter.
Works Cited:
- Cover photo: Rachel Cole-Jansen, "IMG_8858 canary grass in sun.JPG." Reed College Digital Archives. Photographed July 06, 2010. https://rdc.reed.edu/i/650718c7-ef9d-4516-ad1c-1d7e03e92e94
- DiTomaso, J. M., and G. B. Kyser. Reed Canarygrass. Weed Research and Information Center, 2013, p. 544. web. https://wric.ucdavis.edu/information/natural%20areas/wr_P/Phalaris_arundinacea.pdf
- “Reed Canary Grass Invasive Species Profile | Natural Resource Stewardship.” Natural Resource Stewardship, https://naturalresources.extension.iastate.edu/encyclopedia/reed-canary-grass-invasive-species-profile
- “Reed Canarygrass.” Washington State Noxious Weed Control Board, https://www.nwcb.wa.gov/weeds/reed-canarygrass