For the past couple of months, the Eastie Farm Climate Corps Fellows have been busy gathering phragmites and crafting bundles to enhance coastal resilience. The fellows have been collaborating with Emerald Tutu and Northeastern University Hughes Lab since the spring of 2024 to make this project happen.
Phragmites, also known as common reed, is a tall, perennial grass that thrives in wetlands and coastal areas. While it’s often viewed as an invasive species due to its rapid growth and ability to outcompete native plants, phragmites have a unique role in coastal ecosystems. By bundling and strategically placing these reeds in high-risk coastal areas, they can be used to stabilize shorelines, reduce erosion, and restore habitats. These efforts are part of a broader strategy to strengthen coastal areas against the impacts of storms and rising sea levels, turning a problematic plant into a valuable resource for environmental protection.
The fellows carefully transport their phragmites bundles to piers in East Boston, targeting an area in great need of coastal support with the growth of marsh plants. They’ve been experimenting with different techniques to keep the bundles secure, but the unpredictable ocean sometimes has other plans, shifting them wherever it pleases!
These arch-like bundles are crucial for shoreline restoration and resilience. Their unique shape mimics natural structures that help trap sediment and create a stable environment for marsh plants to take root and thrive. By building these structures, the team is not only promoting plant growth but also protecting the shoreline from erosion. The arch shape is particularly effective because it allows the bundles to flex with the movement of the tides while still providing a strong framework that often resists being washed away. Over time, these bundles help to rebuild marshland, which is vital for absorbing storm surges, filtering water, and providing habitat for wildlife.
Harvesting phragmites and crafting these arch-like bundles is no easy task. The process begins with cutting down the tall, tough reeds using weed whackers—often in the middle of swamps, where fellows have to trudge through thick mud in heavy boots. The heat and humidity can be relentless, making the work even more grueling. Once harvested, the phragmites need to be tightly bound into bundles, a task that requires both strength and precision to ensure they’re secure and ready to be transported.
Despite these challenges, the importance of building and placing these arch-like bundles on the shoreline cannot be overstated and the experience itself is incredibly rewarding.
Working on this project offers a blend of hands-on environmental action and personal growth. It’s not just about sustaining marshes—though that’s a crucial outcome—but it is also about the satisfaction of seeing your hard work make a tangible difference. The fellows learn resilience, patience, and the power of teamwork in navigating these physical demands and unpredictable elements. There’s something deeply fulfilling about connecting with nature on such an intimate level, knowing that every bundle placed is a step toward a healthier, more resilient coastline.
