Alien Invasion

Non-native, so-called 'alien' species are a major threat to our rivers and lakes. We are working with communities to raise awareness of and work to eradicate these invasive plant species. This work will help stabilise riverbanks and promote the regeneration of native plant species and habitats.

Our main focus has been on Himalayan balsam. It may look beautiful, but it is highly invasive and stifles the growth of native plant species. Himalayan balsam is particularly a problem on our riverbanks, as in the winter the balsam dies back, leaving the banks bare and exposed to erosion.

The ‘pulling season’ is a limited window in the summer months, just before the balsam seeds. During this period we will be running a number of conservation days and looking for volunteers to help us to eradicate this plant from our catchment.

Contact the Bassenthwaite Reflections office if you would like to know more about removing alien species or tell us about them in your area. For details of event click on the clink below, or sign up to our newsletter to receive the latest information about events.