The programme to reduce INNS (Invasive Non-Native Species), namely Himalayan Balsam (HB) and Japanese Knotweed (JKW) was started three years ago and continues this year.
From May to end of July BGU promoted 32 HB eradication events organised by BGU groups and associate organisations, using manual pulling in a wide range of areas along Bradshaw Brook, Seven Acres Country Park, Firwood woodlands, Watersmeeting Road, Captains Clough, Doffcocker ….
Now it is autumn it is the turn of JKW which is a very different customer …..it has to be treated by specialists because it is so pervasive and difficult to get rid of. The programme is now underway, organised by John Frazer using volunteers and also contract gardeners.
John is secretary of Bradshaw Brook Fly Fishing Club, hence his detailed knowledge of the devasting effects on riverbanks. John has also agreed to become a member of the BGU Committee, and is a most welcome addition to our team
