Phragmites control program begins September 28
Update posted September 28, 2026: The herbicides WeatherMax® and Habitat® Aqua are being applied by a qualified contractor.
The Town of Midland's contractor is scheduled to begin herbicide treatment of invasive phragmites at various locations throughout Midland on September 28, 2026. Treatment activities are expected to continue for approximately one week, weather and site conditions permitting.
Phragmites, also known as European common reed, is an invasive species that spreads quickly and forms dense stands that crowd out native plants, disrupt wildlife habitat, reduce biodiversity, and outcompete native species for water and nutrients. It can also interfere with wetlands, block drainage systems, and increase fire hazards, resulting in significant ecological and economic impacts.
Signage will be placed in treatment areas, and notices have been hand-delivered to nearby neighbourhoods. Residents are asked to obey all posted signage and avoid treated areas.
As identified in the below map, the areas scheduled for treatment include:
- Coral Springs Stormwater Pond #12, Coral Springs Lane
- Municipal ditch east of Franke Kindred Road and Albert Street
- Municipal ditches on Harbourview Drive south of Marina Park Avenue, including the area near 1084 Harbourview Drive
- Petterson Park, south of the baseball diamond
- MacDonald Road Stormwater Pond #3, including adjacent ditch areas
- Aberdeen Boulevard Stormwater Pond #13, including pond edges and the outfall location on Georgian Bay
- Riverwalk Place Stormwater Pond #28, including pond edges and adjacent trailways
This work is made possible through funding provided by the Province of Ontario to support efforts to prevent invasive species from becoming established or spreading across the province.
