Alien Invaders
Alien Invaders
Non-native invasive plants are the second most important threat to our native plants after habitat destruction. The problems they cause are very significant for our native plants and cost millions of pounds to put right.
The vast majority of non-native species introduced to Great Britain over the millennia have caused no significant harm. In fact, many contribute to economic and social well-being through their use in certain sectors such as agriculture, forestry, horticulture and the pet sector.
But, given suitable conditions, some non-native species find themselves un-checked and able to dominate native species, transform ecosystems or cause general environmental harm. These are invasive species and the serious negative impacts they can have on native species include predation, competition and/or spread of disease.
|
|
|
Example Project: Himalayan Balsam Eradication
A community project coordinated by the Rothay Valley Environment Group.
This Rydal based community group has become concerned about the spread of Himalayan Balsam, an invasive species with is smothering other native plants. This group is proactively bashing, strimming and pulling balsam to prevent the seeds entering watercourses. With Rydal being at the head of the valley, this work is vital in stopping the spread of balsam along the shores of Windermere.
A strimmer has been purchased and funding is needed to pay for contractors to ‘spray’ in places where access is difficult or dangerous.
|
 |
|
Businesses Supporting this Project |
||
|
||
