Our work to control the spread of invasive plants in the Lower Avon will recommence this spring thanks to funding from the Environment Agency.

The Lower Avon Non-Native Plant Project, which will be funded for a year, will target Japanese knotweed, giant hogweed, parrot’s feather, skunk cabbage and Himalayan balsam. These invasive non-native species can harm the environment, are costly to the economy and can even pose a risk to human health. For example, Japanese knotweed can cause structural damage to buildings and giant hogweed contains a sap which can be harmful to people. These plants also threaten our native wildlife.

Efforts to control non-native plants in the Lower Avon area began in 2010, but were halted in 2015 due to a lack of funding. But now, thanks to the Environment Agency’s support, the Lower Avon Non-Native Plant Project has been launched to resume this work and help prevent the spread of invasive non-native plants. There will be a special focus on the tributaries which run off the New Forest and into the River Avon.

Project Officer Jo Gore said:

“I have always hoped to gain further funding to restart work in the area, as after five years of control work on the Avon tributaries I was really starting to see the difference that we had made. Tackling non-native invasive plants does not happen quickly, but with the help of landowners and volunteers, it is achievable.”

If you are a landowner struggling with invasive plants, please contact Jo for advice. Jo is also looking for volunteers to help on Himalayan balsam pulls, so if you’re looking to get some fresh air and have some spare time this summer, you can get in touch with her on 02380 424205 or Joanne.Gore@hiwwt.org.uk