It’s a combined effort when it comes to removing an invasive species along the Thames River in Mitchell.
The Upper Thames River Conservation Authority is working with West Perth to remove Japanese Knotweed from that area.
Officials say that it’s an aggressive semi-woody perennial plant that’s native to eastern Asia and it was introduced to North America in the 1800’s as an ornamental species.
Perth County Warden Walter McKenzie says that “the Environment, Forestry and Trails Committee identified a concern with Japanese Knotweed and requested municipal funding through the 2019 budget process”.
He adds that “the UTRCA was contacted for assistance with mapping the extent of the Knotweed patches and preparation of a management plan.”
Japanese Knotweed spreads quickly, creating dense thickets that degrade wildlife habitats and it also reduces plant biodiversity by competing with other native vegetation.
UTRCA staff are cutting and treating the invasive species to limit regeneration and the site will be restored with native plant species in the future.
