Thanks to all who helped out with cleaning SLR and attacking invasive plants. I believe I speak for all in saying we were pleased with the efforts, results, vittles, and camaraderie.
For those unable to participate, we'll look forward to seeing you out there next year!
Group shot by Doris:
Winner of the best dressed award (don't miss the boots!):
We split into two groups: Cleanup and invasive control. Since Randy was in the invasive group, the following images will over-represent the activities of that group.
Regardless, y'all can see the aesthetic improvement on the road provided by the Cleanup Crew in any drive on Stewarts Landing Road.
Below is a "before" image at one point of attack with phragmite reduction beginning. This particular patch was too large and too well established to eliminate completely. The primary goal was to contain the spread along the road by digging out the spreading "juveniles" and eliminating the seed tassles atop the mature plants.
Eliminated!
Readying the "Sword of Death" provided by Bob and named by Marshall. The only good phragmite is a dead phragmite!
Curtailing the spread:
The "Sword of Death" in action. One could almost hear CCR's "Run Through The Jungle."
While cutting the invasive reeds down will not eliminate them, it was satisfying to see them fall even though plodding through the marsh resulted in very wet feet. Also, it allowed determination of just how far back the phragmites had spread.
Contemplating the next move:
Winner of the "Largest Rhizome" award:
It is important to get as much and many of the rhizomes out as possible because the shoots off them are one of the means of propagation. And they are the reason the phragmites are so damnably hard to kill.
Reinforced with cleanup members, here is the crew doing the best they can to eliminate another patch:
Shortly afterward, the heavens decided it was time to finish our efforts and opened up with a drenching rain. The timing was impeccable.
Only a little wet, the crew enjoyed richly deserved rewards.
