Volunteers are needed to bash the balsam.
Breckland Council, in partnership with Thetford Council, Anglian Water and the Cam and Ely Ouse Catchment Partnership (CamEO), are looking for volunteers to help tackle an alien plant which is threatening the Little Ouse riverbanks. Members of the public are invited to join a working group in Thetford on Friday, July 20, which intends to tackle the infamous Himalayan Balsam.
This quick spreading, non-toxic plant is one of a number of alien species that cost millions each year to control. It smothers native waterside plants and even increase the risk of flooding.
Volunteers will be shown how to pull out the plants. They are asked to come wearing suitable outdoor clothing and bring their own gloves if possible. The volunteer work party will take place on Friday 20th July at 9.30 a.m. with participants being asked to meet organisers at the tea shop on School Lane Road, Thetford at 9.30 am.
Paul Claussen, executive member of Place at Breckland Council, said: 'We had a really good turn out for a recent litter pick in the town and hope we get strong support this time too. The more we have, the more Himalayan Balsam we can bash.'
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