The Year 4 (2023) Interim Report for NCC’s ‘Removing Phragmites from Georgian Bay Wetlands to Improve Habitat for Species at Risk’ highlights significant progress in combating invasive Phragmites and enhancing Species at Risk habitat along the Eastern Georgian Bay Coast. The
collaborative efforts of NCC and partner Georgian Bay Land Trust (GBLT), supported by GMI and EGBI, have strengthened relationships with key organizations such as Georgian Bay Forever,
Parks Canada’s Georgian Bay Islands National Park, Georgian Bay Biosphere Mnidoo Gamii, Severn Sound Environmental Association, Moose Deer Point First Nation, and Shawanaga First Nation.

In partnership with Moose Deer Point First Nation, efforts were made to build invasive Phragmites
control capacity within their Lands Department, involving consultation, sharing stewardship resources, and supporting on-the-ground control initiatives. NCC extended their mapping project, ArcGIS Field Maps, collaborating with various organizations to expand understanding of the invasive Phragmites landscape. On-the-ground control efforts were expanded to cover over 8 hectares across five locations, including new sites near Ogemawahj Road, Beausoleil Island, and Quarry Island.

Monitoring and effectiveness assessments conducted by GBLT and Georgian Bay Forever showed
successful control outcomes in some areas, while regrowth challenges were addressed with ongoing strategies. NCC’s invasive Phragmites control video, shared widely since Fall 2021, has garnered over 7,500 views, contributing to broader education. NCC engaged with 22 inland lake cottager associations through email correspondences and virtual meetings, further supporting three associations via sessions provided by Georgian Bay Forever. 

NCC’s annual report emphasizes the achievements in invasive species control, habitat improvement, and education outreach, expressing anticipation for continued collaboration with GMI and the EGBI.