Impact of Invasive Phragmites on Ability of a Mawipoqtapei (Chaleur Bay) Salt Marsh to Mitigate Climate Warming

Saltmarshes, meadows flooded by marine waters, are recognized as one of the world’s most effective ecosystems for sequestering carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and storing it in the soil, thus helping to mitigate climate warming. These marshes also are negligible sources or even sinks for the potent greenhouse gases, methane and nitrous oxide. Through our research we ask if that mitigation potential is reduced where an aggressively invasive genetic strain of the reed, Phragmites australis, has replaced native saltmarsh vegetation. This research is directly aligned with the Mi’gmaw Ges¬¬pe’gewa’gi Institute of Natural Understanding’s (GINU) mission to protect and restore ecosystems while braiding Mi’gmaw Knowledge with Western science. Data from the project will support evidence-based approaches to saltmarsh restoration, helping the GINU to prioritize areas where Phragmites eradication would have the most significant ecological and climate benefits. The GINU will gain expertise and actionable data to integrate into broader restoration strategies, allowing the organization to lead regional efforts to combat invasive species while enhancing carbon storage in critical wetlands. Finally, the findings will reinforce GINU’s ability to advocate for Indigenous-led restoration policies by providing concrete, scientifically validated data on the benefits of restoring saltmarsh ecosystems.

Faculty Supervisor:

Gail L. Chmura

Student:

Partner:

Gespe’gewa’gi Institute of Natural Understanding

Discipline:

Earth science

Sector:

Agriculture; Professional, scientific and technical services

University:

McGill University

Program: