The Phragmites Working Group Lake Bernard is an outstanding example of what a dedicated group of volunteers can achieve when they work together to protect the environment.
Since 2018, this team has taken on the huge challenge of removing Phragmites australis—an aggressive invasive plant—from the shores of Lake Bernard and nearby roads. Phragmites is known as one of Canada’s worst invasive species because it grows quickly, takes over wetlands and harms native plants and animals.
Now entering their eighth season of hard work, the group has a clear goal: to be “phrag-free” by 2033. This is not an easy task, but the group’s dedication shows just how serious they are about protecting the local environment.
Each season, more than 100 volunteers of all ages join together to cut down Phragmites in muddy, wet and tough conditions. Some take photos, others write grant applications and many put on boots and get to work clearing the invasive plants.
Their efforts have helped control the spread of phragmites and raised awareness about the impact of invasive species, making the group a deserving recipient of this year’s BayToday Community Builders Award for Environment.
“We’re going into our eighth year, which is inconceivable to us. When we started, we just started. We didn’t have any sense of how things would unfold for us,” said Marilee Koenderink, chair of the Phragmites Working Group Lake Bernard.
“I’m enormously proud of the fact that this is a completely volunteer-led organization,” Koenderink shared. “Other invasive species initiatives usually have a professional at the helm, but we started with just a group of concerned citizens. We’re grateful to be able to continue being a coalition of concerned citizens working in collaboration with other businesses who are able to contribute their expertise.”
Their work is supported by experts from organizations like the Invasive Species Centre, the Ontario Invasive Plant Council and the Invasive Phragmites Control Centre, as well as municipal partners like the Village of Sundridge and the Lake Bernard Property Owners Association.
The grassroots group is proof that with teamwork, commitment and a shared love for nature, communities can protect and restore their local environment.
The Environment award recognizes an individual or group for their meaningful and positive contributions to the environment, both man-made and natural. Their efforts may include private initiatives, such as designing an innovative energy-efficient home, or public projects, such as leading a re-greening initiative.
Congratulations to the team at The Phragmites Working Group Lake Bernard!
This award is proudly sponsored by North Bay Hydro.
