Spartina is becoming more adapted to this area which increases its chance of spreading and engulfing more shoreline. This non-native weed is posing more problems than its introducers ever could have imagined. Spartina increases the chance of flooding in areas upstream from infestations. Spartina growth in intertidal areas results in increased rates of siltation. Infested areas eventually fill in, raising the ground level.
Waterways become narrow, deep channels and the flow of water is restricted.
Loss of intertidal mudflasts to Spartina seriously impacts use by migrating shorebirds and waterfowl who rest and fee din these areas. Spartina can also overtake eelgrass beds which are a critical food source for many birds. Spartina changes shoreline areas into grassy meadows. Waterfront property may lose value as a result of lost beach frontage. Spartina can be found scattered around Puget Sound.