In its second year, the wetland monitoring project aimed to assess SAR in the Matchedash Bay wetlands, focusing on the impact of PPhragmites on biodiversity. The project comprised two main components: the removal of Phragmites and the study of SAR turtles. Matchedash Bay, known for its diverse marshes on Georgian Bay, presented challenges in identifying invasive and native species of Phragmites.

Despite constraints in capacity, 38 sites were successfully cut to remove invasive Phragmites,  9 sites have seen 0 regrowth,  and an additional 33 have been identified. Hired students managed Phragmites, and an increase in maintenance and monitoring activities ensued, revealing 125 stands for monitoring—45 native and 80 invasive. Outcomes included eradicating 9 invasive stands through cutting, increased mapping efforts, identifying new invasive species stands, recruiting 30 volunteers for Phragmites removal, and engaging the community through webinars and events.

Various control methods were employed, such as mapping, cutting during  the primary growth stage, proper equipment usage, and selective cutting of invasive Phragmites. The second part of the project focused on SAR turtle monitoring, involving field visits to document turtle observations and incidental reports in 2021 and 2022. The Blanding’s turtle was a primary focus, but observations of other species, including Snapping Turtle, Northern Map Turtle, and Midland Painted Turtle, were recorded at various life stages.

Mortality in the area was also noted, emphasizing the importance of ongoing monitoring and community involvement in events, community cuts, and outreach initiatives. The project faced challenges, including the inaccessibility of certain sites, but successfully engaged the community through various events and initiatives. As the project continues, the emphasis remains on controlling Phragmites and monitoring SAR turtles, ensuring the long-term health and sustainability of the wetland ecosystem.