Miletti, Tara E. (2004) Can a wetland be constructed to resist invasion by non-natives? MSc thesis, University of Akron, Ohio. (Fraser).  Abstract.

ABSTRACT

 Phalaris arundinacea, Canary Reed Grass, is an aggressive and invasive plant that threatens the biodiversity and ecological function of wetlands. P. arundinacea has become established in thick stands throughout the Northeast, Great Plains, and Pacific Northwest regions. The objective of this study was to investigate which types of wetlands based on hydrology and nutrient load are either more or less susceptible to invasion by P. arundinacea. Eight wetland types, varying in water levels (+5 cm, 0 cm,  -5 cm from the substrate, or fluctuating) and nutrient additions (high and low) were constructed in mesocosms and allowed to establish over 2 growing seasons.  Seeds of P. arundinacea  were added as 3 seeding treatments (seeded and mowed, seeded and non-mowed and not seeded).  After approximately 6 months, the mesocosms were mowed.  P. arundinacea did not significantly establish among any of the mesocosm.  Ratio of sowed vs. nonsowed plants tend to differ among treatments.  Water levels seem to have more of an influence on invasion than fertility.  Upland genera, such as Bromus and Phleum, more easily invaded wetlands with lower water level. Wetland genera, such as Typha and Scirpus, more readily invade wetlands with high water levels.  Nonsowed plants tended to be greater in low nutrient treatment in mowed mesocosms.  Nonsowed plants were generally greater in high nutrient treatment among non-mowed mesocosms. 

Full Thesis on file at UA.