Invasive Species Removal

OAKLAND COUNTY INVASIVE SPECIES MANAGEMNT AREA (CISMA):

Oakland County is home to numerous non-native and dominant plant species that overtake native species. The most common and well-known invasive species is phragmites. Phragmites spreads easily and quickly dominates the vegetation in ditches, medians and areas along the shorelines. It grows tall and can be a visibility concern along roadways. RCOC's number one priority is maintaining safety for its citizens. Therefore, RCOC chose to become a partner in the Oakland County Cooperative Invasive Species Management Area (OC-CISMA) to help support the eradication of phragmites and Japanese Knotweed from the road rights of way. The Oakland County CISMA is composed of RCOC, participating municipalities, non-profit organizations and other county departments.

To learn more about the Oakland County CISMA, how to join CISMA or the invasive plant phragmites, visit the Oakland County CISMA page on the Stewardship Network website.

Herbicide Information Flier

2021 Phragmite & Japanese Knotweed Press Release


RCOC HIGHWAY MAINTENANCE INVOLVEMENT:

Employees mow Phragmites outside of the herbicide treatment window to ensure that sight-line distance is maintained for motorists and pedestrians. 

To limit the transfer of Phragmite seeds/stolons, mower blades and boots are washed or wiped between mowing sites. Phragmites are not uprooted during this operation. Staff also does not transport Phragmites offsite (dead or alive). 

To report Phragmites that are impacting sight-lines:

Road Right of Way with Invasive Phragmites
Road Right of Way After Removal of Invasive Phragmites