You could play a part in stopping Eden’s unwelcome invaders. Volunteers are needed to prevent the spread of invasive plants such as Himalayan balsam and Japanese knotweed. They are out-competing our native plants and leading to serious erosion of the river banks.
Now Eden Rivers Trust, with funding from Natural England, Carlisle City Council and Cumbria Community Foundation, is coordinating a group which aims to tackle the problem.
A number of demonstration sites have been set up and various methods will be used to control the invasive plants. Eden Rivers Trust is seeking volunteers to help at these sites in the Carlisle, Lazonby, Armathwaite and Ullswater areas. It is hoped to offer training for volunteers working in the Carlisle area.
Alison Reed, Conservation Officer at ERT, said “The Eden Valley has a variety of beautiful rivers which support a wealth of wildlife but they are being spoilt by these invasive plants. This is our chance to take action and do something practical, to ensure their beauty and wildlife is maintained for all to enjoy now and in the future.”
If you would like to volunteer or are interested in training please contact:
Alison Reed, Conservation Officer, Eden Rivers Trust. Tel: 01768 866788, or email alison@edenrivertrust.org.uk.
If you would like to learn more about the work of Eden Rivers Trust, you can visit www.edenriverstrust.org.uk. Alternatively, email office@edenriverstrust.org.uk or telephone the office, which is at Skirsgill Business Park, Penrith, on tel. no. 01768 866788.
