The Missisquoi River Basin has been heavily impacted by invasive Japanese knotweed, an invasive species that was introduced from eastern Asia to the United States in the 19th century.
Knotweed spreads prolifically, forming dense patches that shade out native plants. It often grows along streambanks, and with its shallow root system creates stretches vulnerable to erosion.
Over the course of a multi-year research project, the Missisquoi River Basin Association (MRBA) has become a “go-to” resource for management in the community as well as beyond the Missisquoi River region.
In their third year of treatment trials, MRBA maintained trial plots using various methods to reduce the presence of knotweed and encourage native plant growth. The group estimates that 3+ years of ongoing management will allow native vegetation to establish and outcompete the knotweed, improving habitat and soil stability in the managed areas.