Coltsfoot

A Persistent Invasive Species has arrived on Cawaja Beach.

Coltsfoot (Tussilago farfara) is a non-native perennial plant that has made its way into many parts of North America, including our beloved beach. Recognizable by its small, bright yellow flowers that resemble dandelions, Coltsfoot is a deceptively attractive plant. However, its presence in natural ecosystems poses a significant threat to biodiversity and the health of native plant communities.

What is Coltsfoot?

Originally from Europe and Asia, Coltsfoot was introduced to North America as a medicinal herb. Its flowers bloom in early spring (April), often before its large, hoof-shaped leaves appear, giving it its name. While it may look harmless, Coltsfoot is highly invasive due to its aggressive growth habits and adaptability to various environments.

Why is Coltsfoot a Problem?

Coltsfoot spreads rapidly, both through seeds and its extensive underground rhizome system. It thrives in disturbed soils, roadsides, and open spaces, often outcompeting native vegetation for resources.

How to Identify Coltsfoot

• Flowers: Bright yellow, resembling dandelions, appearing in early spring.
• Leaves: Large, rounded, and hoof-shaped with a toothed edge, appearing after the flowers have bloomed.
• Growth Habit: Found in colonies, often in moist, disturbed areas such as ditches, roadsides, and construction sites.

Controlling Coltsfoot

Preventing the spread of Coltsfoot requires vigilance and initiative-taking measures:

• Manual Removal: Small infestations can be dug up, but care must be taken to remove the entire rhizome system.
• Mulching: Covering the area with thick mulch can suppress growth.
• Chemical Control: Herbicides may be necessary for larger infestations, but they should be used cautiously and in accordance with local regulations.
• Avoid Disturbing Soil: Minimizing soil disruption in affected areas can prevent the spread of seeds and rhizomes.

Phragmites

Cawaja Beach has been dealing with Invasive Phragmites (Phragmites australis ssp. australis) for over 20 years. The CPOA has hired a contractor to carry out two complete cuttings/mowing of the invasive reeds at the north end of the beach in previous years. Our progress in containing these plants has been successful but it is a constant work in progress. We also have a Community dig (8 years) on the second Saturday in June.

Life Cycle of Invasive Phragmites

In general, growth of invasive Phragmites follows these timelines however exact timing will be site-dependent:

• Dormant: November–March
• Germination: April–May
• Primary vegetative growth: May (our first cutting)
• Flowering: August–September
• Translocation of nutrients: September–October (second cutting)

Mowing of an invasive Phragmites stand using tools or by hand-cutting stems and seed heads will not affect the root system and if used as a standalone control method, cutting may stimulate growth and increase the density of a stand. Consider soil moisture and other conditions that allow the soil to support heavy mowing equipment, as these can impede the ease and efficacy of mowing and may be unsafe. Mowing should be conducted in late July/ early August, when most of the carbohydrate reserves are in the upper portion of the plant (i.e., before seed production or flowering). Mowing is relatively low-cost and can be easily performed with minimal training. This course of action stops the phragmites from seeding in late August which significantly reduces the spread of the plant. All clothing, boots, and equipment should be cleaned onsite to avoid the transportation and dispersal of invasive Phragmites.

Disposal Care is needed when transporting and disposing of trimmings from mowing or cutting of invasive Phragmites stands because stands can establish from the dispersal of seeds or fragments from the stolon and rhizome. Invasive Phragmites clippings should not be composted; cut plants should be bagged in thick plastic bags and allowed to dry out or decay in the sun to kill all viable seeds and rhizomes. Dried and dead Phragmites plants can be burned, when permitted by the Township, or the bags must be disposed of at an appropriate municipal staging or disposal location. Contact local municipalities prior to disposal. All clothing, boots, and equipment should be cleaned/brushed of plant material on-site to avoid the transportation and dispersal of invasive species.

Preventing the introduction of invasive species is critical

• Clean, drain and dry your boat before entering a new waterbody, particularly if it was recently in another waterbody. Invasive species such as Zebra and quagga mussel larvae and adults (Dreissena polymorpha and Dreissena bugensis, respectively), can easily enter the lake attached to unwashed boats. Within Georgian Bay, zebra and quagga mussels threaten the native mussel population, affect nutrient cycling, and pose a safety hazard for swimmers.
• Plant native species in your gardens, as many non-native landscaping plants have the potential to escape and become invasive. Non-native species such as Norway maple (Acer platanoides), periwinkle (Vinca minor), goutweed (Aegopodium podagraria,) yellow iris (Iris pseudacorus), and European common reed (Phragmites australis) can be visually appealing but should be avoided due to their tendency to outcompete native species. Luckily, there are many native alternatives that can be cultivated instead and pose no harm to environment. Native plants are also the preferred food source for native insects, birds, and other wildlife.
• Do not transport firewood; instead buy firewood near where you will burn it. Transporting wood can result in the spread of invasive forest insects, such as emerald ash borer (Agrilus planipennis), that could affect the health of the surrounding forests. Within the next ten years we will regrettably witness the death of the majority the ash trees in Ontario due to the introduction of the ash borer insect.

See the FOCA web site at https://foca.on.ca/invasive-species-guide/ to download the Shoreline Owners Guide to Invasive Species.

Managing Poison Ivy in the Cawaja Beach Community

Poison ivy is a common issue in our area. Here’s how to address it:

• Roadsides and Paths: Report sightings to the Township at 705-526-4204 for spraying.
• Neighbour’s Property: Inform them of the location.
• Your Property: Inspect and remove poison ivy safely (see tips below).
• On the Beach: Email secretary@cpoa.ca with the location.

Precautions: Poison ivy sap causes painful allergic reactions. Learn to identify and avoid it. Warn visitors and monitor pets, as the plant’s oil can transfer via fur.

Where Poison Ivy Grows

It thrives in various conditions:

• Forest edges, roadsides, fences, and beach entrances.
• Sunny or shady areas, wet or dry soil.

Removal and Prevention Tips

• Protect Yourself: Wear gloves, long sleeves, and pants. Avoid contact with sap, even on dead plants.
• Pull the Plant: Remove the plant, roots, and stems in early spring when the ground is wet.

Prevent Regrowth:

• Use mulch or thick black plastic to smother new shoots.
• Bury or bag plants (marked clearly). Never compost them.
• Do Not Burn: Burning poison ivy releases toxic smoke that can cause severe lung damage.

Cleanup

Wash clothes, gloves, and tools thoroughly after removal to avoid lingering oils.

Natural Spray Recipe

Mix 1 cup Epsom salts, 1 gallon 10% vinegar, and 8 drops of dish soap. Spray leaves thoroughly, repeating as needed.

Professional Removal Services

Weedman: 705-526-5977
Norman’s Gallery: 705-526-4361

Address poison ivy promptly to protect health and maintain our community’s beauty.

Water Testing at Cawaja Beach

Cawaja Beach is a beloved natural gem in our community, offering pristine sandy shores, stunning views, and a vital habitat for local wildlife. Ensuring the health of its waters is crucial for maintaining its beauty, ecological balance, and safety for all who enjoy it. By using the Water Rangers Testing Kit, we can actively monitor and protect the water quality at Cawaja Beach.

Why Test Water at Cawaja Beach?

Cawaja Beach is a hub for recreation and wildlife, making water quality monitoring essential. Regular testing helps to:

• Identify Contaminants: Detect harmful bacteria, pollutants, or chemical changes.
• Protect Public Health: Ensure the water is safe for swimming and other activities.
• Raise Awareness: Engage the community in protecting this treasured local resource.

How the Water Rangers Testing Kit Works

The Water Rangers Testing Kit is a simple, portable solution for citizen to evaluate the Bay. With tools to measure key water quality indicators, it empowers anyone to contribute meaningful data to help safeguard Cawaja Beach.

What Can You Test?

• pH Levels: Indicates acidity or alkalinity, vital for aquatic health.
• Dissolved Oxygen: Measures oxygen availability for fish and other organisms.
• Temperature: Impacts ecosystem dynamics and wildlife behavior.
• Turbidity: Reflects water clarity, which affects light penetration and aquatic life.
• Conductivity: Shows the presence of dissolved salts and minerals.
• Alkalinity: Helps the water resist rapid pH changes.

Contact Us

Want to get involved or learn more? Reach out to environment@cpoa.ca to get started. Together, we can keep Cawaja Beach beautiful, healthy, and thriving.