Invasive Plant Control

Invasive plant species, such as giant hogweed (Heracleum mantegazzianum), Japanese knotweed (Fallopia japonica), Himalayan balsam (Impatiens glandulifera), variegated yellow archangel (Lamiastrum galeobdolon subsp. argentatum) and rhododendron (Rhododendron), have the potential to take over large areas of habitat. This can reduce the success of native floral species and, in some cases, cause damage and erosion to habitats such as river banks.

It is an offence ‘to plant or otherwise encourage’ the growth of invasive plant species listed under Schedule 9 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act (WCA) 1981 (as amended) in the wild. With some plants, such as Japanese knotweed, this includes cutting the plant or roots and disturbing surrounding soil, if not correctly managed. Due to the nature of Schedule 9 species, it is also an offence to dispose of them in public landfill sites.

EMEC Land Management’s experienced team can provide professional, safe and effective control, removal and disposal of invasive plant species.

EMEC Ecology are also able to carry out invasive plant surveys to identify any invasive species present on a site, should this be required.