Wee Notes & Breaking News

Himalayan Balsam - the root of the problem

At the start of Queen Victoria’s reign Himalayan Balsam was introduced as a garden plant. Having escaped the garden the plant is now impacting and out-competing native species in our wetland areas and thus it is affecting native insects, animals and birds. It is listed under Schedule 9 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 and it forms part of our check when carrying out a Stage 1 site investigation for any site. All our staff are trained in its identification along with other such plants as Japanese Knotweed and Giant Hogweed.

Last Friday we closed the office and joined the RSPB at Lochwinnoch to clear areas of the Himalayan Balsam - part of our ongoing efforts to improve the environment and help local communities and organisations. On Friday the weather stood fair and a good time was had by all.