Abstract

Climate change and human development have caused detrimental impacts on wetland ecosystems in the United States. The rise of invasive species, because of human activities, threatens the stability and biodiversity of one of nature’s most efficient carbon sinks. Wetland restoration and invasive species management show promising results for native species resilience and overall ecosystem health. This study contributes to our understanding of wetland restoration and invasive species management at Crane Swamp in Killbuck, OH, by investigating the impact of different management techniques on the removal of reed canary grass (Phalaris arundinacea) (RCG). Between the spring of 2024 and the fall of 2025, different removal strategies (burning, mowing, shade, and glyphosate herbicide) were applied to the Killbuck Preserve. Data collection was conducted on October 28th, 2025, to count the remaining stems of RCG after each treatment was applied. Results of RCG stem counts, RCG density, and proportion of RCG as compared to native vegetation were compared to determine which treatment site saw the least amount of remaining RCG. Analysis demonstrates that the shade treatment site saw the least amount of RCG stems and most of the native plant species, with the herbicide treatment also showing a significant reduction of RCG. Broadly, the results of this study suggest that using nature-based solutions shows the most promise in returning native wetland species to the preserve and helping to diversify the ecosystem.

Advisor

Moreno, Carlo

Department

Environmental Studies

Disciplines

Biodiversity | Weed Science

Keywords

Wetlands, Invasive Species, Management

Publication Date

2026

Degree Granted

Bachelor of Arts

Document Type

Senior Independent Study Thesis

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© Copyright 2026 Emma C. Humbert