Volunteers Need at Elbridge Swamp
Saturday July 23 - 8:00 AM
We need your help
in controlling an infestation of Common Reed (Phragmites
australis) in Elbridge Swamp Nature Preserve!
To protect the
habitats in this large wetland complex, we will be using a
non-chemical, mechanical control of Phragmites.
It has been shown
that an annual cutting at the end of July can suppress
Phragmites. This will be an annual work project for many
years to come.
WHY?
At 254 acres,
Elbridge Swamp Nature Preserve is the largest preserve
protected by the Central New York Land Trust. With the right
kind of stewardship, we can help prevent the invasive
Phragmites from undermining the ecological integrity of
this lovely place. Carpenters Brook flows through this high
quality, federally protected wetland. The preserve is home
to several bird species including:
Winter Wren,
Great Crested Flycatcher,
Eastern Wood-pewee,
Wood Thrush,
Veery,
Pileated Woodpecker,
Baltimore Oriole, and
Red-eyed Vireo.
WHAT? And HOW?
Bring hedge clipper
or hand pruners or other tools to cut the reeds. Wear long
pants, long sleeves, work gloves, insect repellent and a
broad brimmed hat (to keep deer flies away).
Phragmites
responds to annual cutting, and that can help us avoid the
use of any herbicides. There is a small infestation of the
exotic invasive plant in the western portion of the
preserve, in two main patches, approximately a quarter acre
each, as well as couple of smaller patches. Although it is
not likely that we can achieve a complete eradication using
mechanical control, we seek to reduce the density of the
reed. This help undermines its tendency to establish a
monoculture, and by disrupting that, we can encourage native
plant species and associated wildlife.
WHEN?
Saturday July 23rd. We will meet at 8:00 AM
at the end of
Sunview Drive; with enough hands, we'll get done before
the day gets too hot.
WHERE?
Map & Directions
QUESTIONS? And CAN WE COUNT
ON YOU?
To register or for more
information contact us at:
Info@cnylandtrust.org or call (315) 575-8839
