VOLUNTEER groups have been hard at work tackling invasive plant species on the Lickeys and Cofton in recent weeks and months.
During June, July and August, The Lickey Hills Society hosted six sessions to remove Himalayan Balsam in Cofton Park and the Lickey Hills Country Park.
The plant, native to the Himalayas, was introduced to the UK as a garden plant in 1839 but can cover large areas and prevent other species from growing.
Five of the sessions were held in Cofton tackling large areas covered by the balsam.
And one session was held on the Lickeys to concentrate on an area where there were ‘forests’ of massive balsam, some over two metres in height. Despite the size of the balsam, it was apparently relatively easy to remove.
The most effective method of removal is pulling up the shallow rooting plants before they flower and set seeds.
A spokesperson for the Lickey Hills Society said: “As always, many thanks to those who took part to support this year’s bashes.
“It was pleasing to see members of the Habitat Heroes and the Thursday morning walking group taking part in many of the sessions.”
The Habitat Heroes are a long-standing volunteer group who have been supporting the work of the Lickey Hills rangers for almost 15 years.
