Invasive species treatment to start along Macomb County roadways

Phragmites create safety hazards for drivers and damages infrastructure

MOUNT CLEMENS, Mich. - The Lake St. Clair Cooperative Invasive Species Management Area (LSC CISMA) in partnership with the Macomb County Department of Roads (MCDR) will be working with a contractor to perform phragmites treatment along Macomb County road right of ways. The invasive species control work is anticipated to start following Labor Day and is estimated to be completed within three weeks (weather permitting).

Funding for the phragmites control is provided by MCDR and each of the communities where work will take place. The presence of the invasive species creates a visual impairment for drivers, reduces drainage, and damages pavement since it has the ability to grow through paved roads. The Department of Roads views the invasive species as a threat to both drivers and infrastructure. The reed, which can grow up to 20 feet in height, thrives in roadside ditches and shoulders.

Work to treat phragmites within Macomb County road right of ways began in 2015. The LSC CISMA was established in Macomb County through the Michigan Invasive Species Grant Program in 2015. The work taking place this summer is part of the ongoing effort to control the non-native phragmites.

Treatment and removal work will take place along multiple roads within the following communities:

• Chesterfield Township
• Clinton Township
• Harrison Township
• Lenox Township
• Ray Township
• Richmond Township
• Shelby Township
• Sterling Heights
• Washington Township

For maps and locations of all treatment areas within Macomb County, visit lakestclaircisma.com/projects/2024-treatment-projects.

For more information regarding phragmites and invasive species control in Macomb County, contact the LSC CISMA at 248-504-4315 or [email protected]or visit lakestclaircisma.com.

Department:Department of Roads

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