Phragmites Research
Despite its invasive nature, there is scientific evidence that Phragmites australis provides important ecological services, especially sequestration of nitrogen, carbon and phosphorus. Phragmites’ high nutrient absorption efficiency has been exploited for nutrient management in eutrophied estuaries and in wastewater treatment applications, all around the world.
The ultimate goal of this project was to determine how much nitrogen is contained in the aerial tissue of Phragmites on Martha’s Vineyard and therefore, how much nitrogen could potentially be removed from the nutrient cycle by harvesting the reeds.
Seed funding was provided by the Edey Foundation and full project funding was provided by the US EPA with a Healthy Communities Grant in 2015. Partners included: Dr. Jamie Vaudrey (UConn), Sheri Caseau and Chris Seidel (MV Commission), Liz Durkee (OB ConCom), Kristen Fauteux (Sheriff’s Meadow Foundation), Saunders Associates, Mermaid Farm, Polly Hill Arboretum, World Stove, and IGI Farm Hub.
