End of Year Report on Lake Marion 2024
Final report on the state of the lake in November 20204, following the 3 day fall phragmites cut.
A crew of six men worked three eight-hour days, Oct 2, Nov 2 and 3 rd . We cut in all wetland areas surrounding the lake. The low water level in the lake facilitated a thorough cut, we had access to areas that we usually cannot reach however, there were a few small areas that we could not get to. It was our first time to manage to cut practically all areas in three days.
All major areas surrounding the large and small part of the lake were cut. We got to the two ‘corner’ areas of the small lake. We hadn’t cut here for two years. In that space of time the Phrags had grown to a height of about 15’ however, the stands were not that dense due to previous cuts and the establishment of native species such as swamp mallow and sensitive fern. I am hoping in the future that we will not miss a cut here again, and judging by this cut we should be able to achieve our objective; cutting all the Phragmites in three days.
Two new native plant species were spotted during this cut; Grass-leaved goldenrod (Euthamia graminifolia) and Bitter panic grass (Panicum amarum). Neither of these plants are wetland plants, they were found growing on the drier banks of the lake. Every year since I started the cutting (ca. 2013), we have observed the appearance of new native species. I will be revising the list soon for the website along with photos and descriptions for each species, of which there must be around 30. As the Phragmites diminish, the native plants return. When the native plants are established, it will be very difficult for the Phragmites to regain a foothold. We must remember that twenty years ago the entire wetland area of the lake was a monoculture of giant Phragmites.
So many native species are returning, either from seeds in the seedbank that are now getting a chance to germinate (as the Phrags are thinning light reaches the soil and dormant seeds germinate), or from windblown seeds, seeds carried by birds, mammals, or insects etc. We could also augment the species list by buying and planting some suitable native species, for example; Rosa palustris, Cephalanthus occidentalis and Salix nigra (Swamp rose, Buttonbush, and Black willow). These are species that are native to long island, but may find it hard to spread to new areas due to various factors such habitat fragmentation, urban development, etc. Native plants are the base for the local food chain, and are the backbone of our ecosystems. Loose our native plants and we lose all the ecological services and functions that they directly and indirectly provide. Without an abundance of native plants to eat and live in, insect populations plummet; without enough insects, birds and animals disappear.
The health of the lake (as measured by biodiversity) is constantly improving year by year. Because of your support and interest, we are actively reversing biodiversity loss. Biodiversity is essential for the processes that support all life on Earth, including humans. Without a wide range of animals, plants and microorganisms, we cannot have the healthy ecosystems that we rely on to provide us with the air we breathe and the food we eat.
- Peter Meleady (Landscape ecology consultant)
P.S. A quick note on the Cattails (Typha spp.).
An invasive species is one that has the potential to rapidly spread and replace native species. However, some apparently native species have the capacity to dominate wetlands, eg cattails. We now have some fine stands of cattails around the lake. Scattered shoreline patches provide excellent habitat to both resident and migratory birds, as well as some aquatic species and semi-aquatic organisms. They also prevent erosion and minimize nutrient input into the lake. They will spread to many areas that the Phrags once dominated, and this is good. However, they will and are also spreading to areas where they might be problematic, such as the bridge area on Bay Avenue, here, they will have to be monitored and adaptively managed.
Fall 2024 Phragmites Cut
Based on a successful fundraising drive in August & September 2024 - we were able to support 3 days of cutting this Fall - which will continue to reduce the presence of Phragmites on the lake.
Based on a successful fundraising drive in August & September 2024 - we were able to support 3 days of cutting this Fall - which will continue to reduce the presence of Phragmites on the lake.
The Importance of the Annual Phragmites Cut
Why the annual cut is so critical to the health of Marion Lake
Introduction:
Phragmites australis, commonly known as the common reed, is an invasive species that has spread rapidly across many wetland ecosystems in North America. While this tall, dense grass might appear benign, its unchecked growth can severely disrupt the delicate balance of native plant and animal life. At Marion Lake, a consistent effort to cut and manage Phragmites annually has led to significant ecological improvements over time. This post explores the cumulative benefits of these annual cuts and how they contribute to the long-term health of the lake ecosystem.
Understanding Phragmites and Its Impact:
Phragmites is a robust perennial grass that can grow up to 15 feet tall, forming dense stands that outcompete native vegetation. It spreads both by seed and through its extensive rhizome system, making it difficult to control once established. These dense stands can:
Block sunlight from reaching native aquatic plants, leading to reduced biodiversity.
Alter water flow and hydrology, negatively impacting aquatic habitats.
Decrease habitat quality for fish, birds, and other wildlife.
Lower water quality by trapping sediments and nutrients, leading to eutrophication.
The Annual Cutting Strategy:
At Marion Lake, the community has implemented an annual Phragmites cutting program. This strategy involves cutting the plants down to just above the waterline and removing the biomass. The process is typically repeated several times a year, focusing on the late summer and early fall when the plants are most vulnerable.
Cumulative Benefits to the Lake Ecosystem:
Restoration of Native Vegetation:
Increased Light Penetration: With the removal of dense Phragmites stands, sunlight can once again penetrate the water, allowing native aquatic plants to flourish. Over time, the resurgence of species like cattails, sedges, and native grasses helps restore the natural balance of the lake’s flora.
Improved Plant Diversity: The reduction of Phragmites competition encourages the growth of a variety of native plants. This diversity is crucial for maintaining a resilient ecosystem that can support a wide range of wildlife.
Enhanced Habitat for Wildlife:
Better Waterfowl Habitat: Open water areas and diverse vegetation provide improved nesting and feeding grounds for waterfowl. Birds such as ducks, herons, and egrets benefit from the restored habitat.
Support for Aquatic Species: The cutting of Phragmites helps maintain open water areas, crucial for fish and other aquatic species that rely on these habitats for breeding and feeding.
Improved Water Quality:
Reduction in Nutrient Loading: Phragmites can trap excess nutrients, leading to algal blooms and poor water quality. Regular cutting reduces this effect, helping to maintain clearer, healthier water.
Sediment Control: By managing Phragmites, the lake’s natural hydrology is preserved, reducing sedimentation and improving the overall water quality.
Long-Term Ecosystem Resilience:
Preventing Phragmites Recolonization: Consistent cutting prevents Phragmites from re-establishing dominance. Over time, the seed bank of native plants can recover, making the ecosystem more resilient to future invasions.
Community Involvement: The annual cutting program fosters a sense of stewardship within the community. Continued involvement ensures that the lake’s health is monitored and maintained for future generations.
Conclusion:
The ongoing management of Phragmites through annual cuts has proven to be an effective strategy for restoring the ecological balance at Marion Lake. By reducing the dominance of this invasive species, the lake’s native vegetation, water quality, and wildlife habitats have been significantly improved. This cumulative approach underscores the importance of consistent and persistent efforts in ecological restoration projects. The success at Marion Lake serves as a model for other communities facing similar challenges, showing that with dedication and the right strategies, even the most stubborn invasions can be managed effectively.