AN INVASIVE weed is threatening to destroy Herefordshire’s Wye Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, according to the group looking after the area.

Himalayan balsam is the most dominant invasive plant in the Wye Valley and has taken over long stretches of the banks of the Wye and its tributaries, creating large areas with sweet-smelling pink flowers, which devastate wildlife and ecosystems.

Its explosive seed pods fire hundreds of viable seeds up to seven metres in every direction, helping it to establish itself in gardens, fields, woodlands and along footpaths, roads, and culverts.

Nearly 20 years ago, the Environment Agency estimated that total eradication of Himalayan balsam from the UK could cost £300 million, and it has been ranked in the top five most destructive invasive species.

Hereford Times: A member of the Wye Valley AONB bashing the Himalayan balsamA member of the Wye Valley AONB bashing the Himalayan balsam

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Himalayan balsam can be eradicated at no cost by pulling it up before the seed pods start to ripen and scatter their seeds.

With shallow roots, it is easy to pull up and it can be lifted out with a tug.

Andrew Blake, Wye Valley AONB manager, said: “The group is pointing a spotlight on Himalayan.

“With balsam training events, talks and the launch of our new community resource Toolkit the AONB are supporting community groups to bring balsam under control, helping to save our wildlife, which is facing a catastrophic decline, and working with partners such as Wales Resilient Ecological Network, local authorities and the Wildlife Trusts.”

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Invasive non-native species control work in the Wye Valley AONB has been funded from contributions including Severn Trent Boost for Biodiversity fund, the Environment Agency, and Welsh Government initiatives.

Contact info@friendsofbartonshammeadows.org for more information.