Environmentalists are warning of foreign plants taking over Long Island waterways.

Experts are pointing specifically at the infestation of European Phragmites, which they say is one of many plants from other countries that prosper on Long Island. According to area residents, the phragmites have clogged up Marion Lake and limited the mobility of swans and other marine life.

Mike Scherbel, of the Nature Conservancy, says the plants are causing a problem all across the Island. He says native plants, particularly rare ones, are not able to survive underneath the carpet of alien species. Residents are planning to hold a meeting at the East Marion firehouse July 15 to discuss their options.

Related Information: Invasive Plants in Your Backyard The Nature Conservancy Urges Public To Help Reduce Threat Of Invasive Plant Species Prevention, Removal and Restoration Invasive Plants and Weeds NYSG