Balsam Eradication Project
Himalayan Balsam is a serious threat to British river ecosystems. Its ability to grow up to 3 metres in a single season means that it shades out and eliminates other smaller native plant species, reducing biodiversity and vital habitat functions, such as bird nesting sites. When it dies back in the autumn and winter, its weak root system leaves river banks bare, vulnerable to erosion and without shelter for other species.
Our volunteers have engaged in what is popularly known as 'Balsam bashing' for many years, cutting the plant below the lowest node to prevent it from growing back, and then disposing of the cut plant safely away from the river where its seeds cannot spread. This is often a difficult process as Himalayan Balsam thrives in difficult-to-reach locations, on steep riverbanks and tucked away corners. It is fair to admit that so far we have not been very successful!
RLCP has now mapped the presence of Himalayan Balsam across the Lark catchment in preparation for a more systematic programme of removal. We shall be closely monitoring the success of this operation so that we know with more certainty what works with this plant. We are also working closely with other volunteer groups, including the Bury Water Meadow Group to try to achieve a successful outcome. If you would like to report a sighting of himalayn balsam or be involved in the eradication project or other physical river conservation, please get in touch using our contact form.