Description:
This study evaluated reed canary grass distribution in and adjacent to the three streams adjacent to The Nature Conservancy’s Silver Creek Preserve. Field data collected focused on the extent reed canary grass and its relationships to water levels, bank soils, channel substrates and submerged aquatic vegetation. The data presented in the report suggested that restoration techniques at creeks with reed canary grass present should focus on creating channel conditions that deter invasion by minimizing areas of exposed or shallow sediment. Restored channels should feature a deep thalweg with relatively high velocities with the objective to limit accumulation of fine sediment. Where sediment accumulation may occur, adequate depths should be maintained to deter colonization by reed canary grass. Soil mixtures with high silt content should be avoided in point bar construction, and aggressive revegetation should be used to minimize bare sites. Off-channel areas of open water appear to be prone to accumulation of organic detritus produced by SAV and to subsequent invasion by reed canarygrass. Such areas should be included only if maintenance is planned to keep them open.