A group of nature vigilantes are continuing with their fight to get one of our local waterways back from the grip of the aggressive Himalayan balsam.
Volunteers yesterday began to tackle the balsam problem on the Ouse dyke, which runs through the borough, at its source.
The balsam bashers targeted a section of the dyke which crosses Mapperley golf course. This site is a big reservoir for the balsam and the seeds from here are then transported downstream to produce next year’s plants.
WATCH OUT BALSAM, WE’RE COMING FOR YOU: (l to r) Chris Jackson, Cllr Nicki Brooks, Paul Sergent, Virginia Cooper, Jack Dennison and Richard Bissett).
MENACE: Himalayan Balsam
Mark Glover, chair of the Gedling Conservation Trust said he was delighted by the results from yesterday’s session.
He said: “Balsam is a huge problem on the Ouse dyke. It is an aggressive invasive species and crowds out our native plants and wildlife.
“The Gedling Conservation Trust, as part of the Waterside Care initiative, is determined to clear this pest species from the dyke to help restore it for the wildlife that should be seen there.
“We are pleased to be able to tackle the very source of the problem and would like to say a big thank you to the golf course staff who help facilitate the work and who understand its importance.”
The Trust are now on the lookout for more balsam bashers and also volunteers who want to get involved in their other conservation projects.
Mr Glover added: “We are always on the lookout for volunteers to help with this vital work as well as with other conservation projects at our nature reserve – the Netherfield Lagoons. People can find out more details on our Facebook page.”
- The next balsam bash session will be back at the dyke tomorrow (Sunday 3) at 2.30 pm, meeting at the end of Teal Close where is crosses the dyke. All are welcome.
People can follow Gedling Conservation Trust on facebook at:’https://www.facebook.com/Gedling-Conservation-Trust-166379447077102/?ref=bookmarks
