By: Mike Su, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Tilbury Times Reporter
The Ontario Phragmites Action (OPA) program has announced the call for proposals under the Invasive Phragmites Control Fund (IPCF), an initiative made possible through a significant investment by the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources. The fund aims to support local on-the-ground efforts to combat Phragmites and expand control activities as part of a coordinated provincial program.
Municipalities, conservation authorities, Indigenous communities, and other incorporated not-for-profit organizations are encouraged to apply for funding, which offers grants of up to $50,000 per project.
“The Ontario government is investing $11 million over three years in the Invasive Phragmites Control Fund to help communities protect our environment and economy from the devastating impacts of this invasive species,” said Graydon Smith, Minister of Natural Resources.
“I thank the Invasive Species Centre and the Nature Conservancy of Canada for delivering this funding to local organizations committed to the fight against Phragmites.”
“As we launch this round of the Invasive Phragmites Control Fund, we are taking another vital step toward protecting natural landscapes and preserving biodiversity,” said Colin Cassin, Executive Director of the Invasive Species Centre.
“Through this fund, we’re able to help provide communities with the resources they need to take meaningful action on invasive species.”
Phragmites australis, commonly known as common reed, is considered one of Canada’s worst invasive plants. It originates from Europe and spreads rapidly through seeds and root fragments carried by wind, water, vehicles, and human activity. Once established, it forms dense monocultures that harm biodiversity, impact infrastructure, and pose risks to agriculture, recreation, and public safety.
Since 2022, the IPCF has funded 71 projects across Ontario, including mapping efforts, collaborative prevention plans, and expanded control measures. These projects have increased volunteer participation, landowner engagement, and community collaboration while addressing the spread of Phragmites.
The program emphasizes the importance of sustained, collaborative efforts to control Phragmites, noting that investments yield significant economic, environmental, and social benefits. By mitigating costs related to reduced agricultural productivity, flooding, infrastructure maintenance, and lost tourism revenue, the initiative provides a proactive solution to this pervasive threat.
Applications for the current round of funding are now open, with the IPCF continuing to support local organizations and community champions in their fight to protect Ontario’s natural ecosystems.
