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Collaborative research advances new treatment options for invasive Phragmites and European frog-bit
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Tuesday, November 17, 2026 - 3:00pm-4:00pm ET Presenter
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Abstract
Management of the non-native invasive grass Phragmites australis ssp. australis (common reed) is a priority for federal, state, provincial, and private land managers throughout North America. Existing approaches to managing non-native Phragmites and other invasive plants (e.g., Hydrocharis morsus-ranae - European frog-bit) often are resource intensive and not species specific, so an international team of researchers is exploring the development of next-generation bioherbicides that may provide resource managers with more tools to manage invasive plants. A species-specific approach activates a natural plant defense mechanism (RNA interference) that limits the expression of target genes supporting critical plant functions. A second approach targets the symbiotic relationships between invasive Phragmites plants and their microbiome (e.g., bacteria, fungi) as a way to disrupt beneficial relationships and harm the plant. Extensive collaboration among U.S. Federal agencies (USGS, USACE, USDA), an Australian research organization (CSIRO), and universities (Rutgers, Tulane, Louisiana State University) is creating a solid foundation for innovative bioherbicide development. Advancements in biotechnology research are stimulating the development of new treatment options for resource managers targeting invasive plants like Phragmites and European frog-bit.
Bio
Dr. Kowalski is a research wetland ecologist at the U.S. Geological Survey Great Lakes Science Center in Ann Arbor, MI. He has studied Great Lakes coastal wetland ecosystems for over 31 years and leads a research program focused on the 1) ecology and restoration of Great Lakes coastal wetlands, and 2) development of better treatments and management approaches for non-native Phragmites australis. Close collaborations with the Great Lakes Commission, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and several academic partners have led to the creation of the Great Lakes Phragmites Collaborative, the Phragmites Adaptive Management Framework, and advances in new Phragmites treatments based on plant genetics and microbial symbiosis.
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View a List of Past Members Webinar Series Recordings Here