Big Balsam Bash 2026

Bolton is teaming up with Bury this summer as part of the Big Balsam Bash 2026, a coordinated effort to tackle Himalayan Balsam across the boroughs. Whether you’re a seasoned volunteer or completely new to conservation, you’re very welcome to join in.

Fancy getting involved with a balsam bash event?

Everyone is welcome

You don’t need experience, just enthusiasm. Volunteers from across Bolton and Bury will be working together throughout the summer, and it is a great way to meet people, learn new skills and make a real difference to our local environment.

Simply visit the Big Balsam Bash calendar and choose an event that suits you. Then just turn up on the day, no booking required.

Big Balsam Bash | Protect Our Riverbanks

Himalayan Balsam is one of the UK’s most damaging invasive plants. It spreads rapidly, outcompetes native species, weakens riverbanks and increases long‑term flood risk. By taking part in a bash, you’re helping protect local wildlife, improve habitats and strengthen our river corridors for the future. Our mission is to empower people with the information and confidence to tackle Himalayan Balsam where they live.

How to spot it

The leaves have a serrated edge which grow down the stem in sets of three. The stems are light green (often the lightest plant in the area). As the roots tend to be shallow they are easy to pull out of the ground.

The inside of the stem is wet and mushy.

In late June / July they start to produce pink, purple and white helmet shaped flower heads, followed by exploding seed pods!

What we do at a Balsam Bash

Pull plants out by hand

Cut or strim where needed (with permission for power tools)

Pile plants safely to decompose

Revisit sites to catch any regrowth

Hand pulling method

1. Grasp the stem quite far down and pull the plant out (make sure you also get the root).

3. Snap the plant below the first node (nobbly bit on the stem).

4. Pile up all parts of the plant to decompose (off the pathway so that no one slips on them).

5. Keep going and ensure you return to areas to pick out any stragglers.

If using a strimmer or cutting tool – cut the plant as close to the ground as possible to prevent re-growth.