Small actions, big impact – putting the common reed to good use
In January, the Public Works Department cut down common reeds that threatened valuable flora in Nuottasalmenniitty. The reeds were collected and used – for example – to control invasive species and cover plantings by the city’s Green Area Maintenance.
Nuottasalmenniitty, which is located east of the Finnoviken basin, is one of the few remaining traditional grazing biotopes in Espoo. These habitats are shaped by traditional livestock farming, and after centuries of grazing, they have developed a distinctive and rich variety of species, which, in the absence of grazing, now requires continuous management. The traditional biotope area must be cleared regularly to preserve species that require light.
New uses for chopped reeds
In May, the city’s Maintenance Services transferred chopped reeds to the Nokkalanpuisto day care centre to be used as safety material under the bird’s nest swing. At the same time, the safety sand under the swing was moved under the other play equipment in the yard. A layer of common reed about 20 to 35 centimetres thick was also spread along Kalastajantie to suppress knotweed, which is an invasive species. This is the first time that Espoo has used the common reed in such ways, and we are eagerly monitoring both the functionality of the material and the feedback received regarding its use.
Nature wisdom in practice
Clearing the traditional biotope of the common reed and local further use of the material are an excellent example of today’s responsible practices. It is also a step towards a nature-wise Espoo, which is an objective shared by both Espoo and the Public Works Department. This small but exemplary project only required a little ingenuity, effort and a willingness to take action.
Learn more about a nature-wise Espoo.
The common reed has many uses
The common reed is widespread in Finland on seashores and lakeshores. It is a versatile material, but its use in Finland has been limited until now. Recently, however, the subject has been highlighted. Some possible uses for the common reed
The common reed(external link, opens in a new window) (only in Finnish)
Reed surfaces prevent children’s accidents and support a connection with nature(external link, opens in a new window) (only in Finnish)