Annual Phragmites Cutting in Herring Run
August 2025 Update
Volunteers cleared phragmites from the 40 steps bridge to the Centerville River, working each morning from August 11 to 14. While phragmites grow back quickly, the removal of them each year is making a difference in the density of them in the herring run. Having a run that is open to herring returning in the spring to spawn in Lake Elizabeth is essential.
58 huge bags of phragmites were delivered to the Town of Barnstable Transfer Station for burning, which is essential to keep the seeds of this highly invasive plant away from other areas.
Thank you to our team of volunteers that cut back phragmites from the entire length of the herring run from the Lake Elizabeth dam site to the entry into the Centerville River in August!
Three days of phragmite cutting has cleared the herring run from where it begins in the Centerville River up to the bridge by the 40 steps. This is hard work and was completed by a group of determined volunteers in August.
Deep appreciation goes to the volunteer cutters and baggers for this important project that is opening up the run for herring to spawn in the spring.
Phragmites are cut from the stream after which they are bagged and taken to the Town of Barnstable Transfer Station where they are disposed of properly to avoid spreading of their seeds. Phragmites are an aggress invasive plant species that is clogging marshes, lakes, and waterways.
Red Lily Pond Project Association is committed to keeping the Craigville herring run open and clear by removing them annually. The work is permitted by the Barnstable Conservation Commission.
This project is one of several undertaken by the Red Lily Pond Project Association to improve and enhance the health and beauty of our ponds.
