Learn about Phragmites management in saltmarsh ecosystems at this free workshop from the DNREC Coastal Training Program.

Phragmites (Phragmites australis) can become invasive in tidal or nontidal freshwater or brackish marshes, ponds or impoundments.

This workshop will focus on Phragmites management using current research, experience and unbiased explanations of Phragmites impacts, benefits and both traditional and alternative management methods.

Participants will have opportunities to network and share knowledge, ideas and resources.

Funding for this workshop is provided through a National Estuarine Research Reserve System (NERRS) Science Collaborative grant. Information will be presented on research findings from the grant-funded NERRS Science Collaborative biochar project.

Workshop topics include:

• Phragmites impacts and benefits
• The NERR Science Collaborative biochar project
• Biochar application
• Traditional and alternative Phragmites management methods
• Restoration monitoring

The conversation will continue with round-robin topics (to be determined by participants).

Workshop participants will be eligible for pesticide applicator credits:

• PA – Core or Private Applicator: 1.00
• 5A – Aquatic: 1.00
• 10 – Demonstration and Research: 1.00

The workshop is free, but pre-registration is required. The registration deadline is Aug. 23, 2024.

A waitlist will be available once the event has reached capacity. A hybrid option will be offered for wait-listed registrants to participate virtually.

For more information, please contact Lynne Pusey, Coastal Training Program Coordinator, at lynne.pusey@delaware.gov or 302-735-3417.

Meeting Materials

Meeting Agenda

Phragmites Impacts
Matthew Sarver, Owner, Sarver Ecological

Phragmites Benefits
Dr. Thomas Mozdzer, Professor and Chair of Biology
Bryn Mawr College

NERRS Science Collaborative Biochar Project
Univ. of Delaware School of Marine Science and Policy:
Dr. Andrew Wozniak, Associate Professor
Emma Leaseburg, Graduate Student
Pamela Edris, Graduate Student

Christopher Kelly, EPA Region 3, ORISE Fellow
Dr. Mollie Yacano, Research Coordinator, DNREC Delaware National Estuarine Research Reserve

Understanding Biochar and Use Opportunities
Charles Hegberg, Sr. Project Consultant at RES, LLC and partner in Atlantic Biochar, LLC

Traditional Management Methods Panel

• Herbicide and Mechanical Management
  Susan Guiteras, Supervisory Wildlife Biologist, USFWS
• Prescribed Burning
  Eric Ludwig, Regional Wildlife Manager
  DNREC Division of Fish and Wildlife

Using Multiple Methods to Manage Phragmites
Dr. Serina Wittyngham, Assistant Professor
University of North Florida

New Jersey Marshes, Phragmites, and Sea Level Rise
Dr. Judith Weis, Professor Emerita of Biological Sciences
Rutgers University

Restoration Monitoring
Alison Rogerson, Environmental Scientist V
DNREC Division of Watershed Stewardship

Continuing Conversations Round Robin Activity