A series of balsam-pulling days are being organised along the Beane and Mimram to try and control this invasive plant species.

They will focus, where possible, on the upper stretches of the river catchments, to try and limit the number of seeds being washed downstream.  Himalayan balsam can quickly become dominant along a riverbank, shading out native bankside vegetation and contributing to the erosion of the bank in winter, when the balsam dies back.

Dates for the balsam-pulling work parties are:

15th May
27th May
11th June (fully booked with a college group though)
26th June
10th July
24th July
(+ maybe some in August if its suitable).

The sessions, organised by Herts and Middlesex Wildlife Trust's Living Rivers Project, will be aimed at volunteers and no experience is necessary to get involved.  The exact locations will be decided nearer the time based in up-to-date information on where the balsam is growing.  All sessions will run between 10am and 3pm and equipment will be provided (bring a packed lunch, wellies, long sleeves and long trousers!).  For more information or to register your interest in getting involved, please This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

If you have spotted some Himalayan balsam or want to suggest a site for one of the work parties, please also This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Volunteers pull Himalayan balsam

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