A method for the maintenance of managed wetlands, such as those used for mine water run off treatment, involving cutting the reeds in at least a portion of the reed growth area from up to 18 inches above to within 18 inches below the water level without substantially damaging the rhyzomes (rhizomes), and preferably retaining a complete transverse portion of reeds in the reed bed enables minimal disturbance of sedimented ochre and improved recovery rate of the reeds whilst keeping the reed bed in operation.
