Balsam Bash

Need something to take out your frustrations on? Karen Galtress, River Management Officer, Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture is inviting members of the public to join her for an afternoon of clearing Himalayan balsam from the Raggatt area of the River Neb on Sunday 24th June from 2pm – 4.30pm.

Himalayan balsam has pretty flowers but this non-native plant is highly invasive. Increasingly common along Manx watercourses, this shallow-rooted annual shades out native plants, including those which stabilise our river banks. Removing it by chemical control or cutting can be costly and damaging to other species. However, it is very easily pulled up, hence ‘balsam bashing’ becoming an increasingly popular ‘sport‘ among conservation volunteers in the British Isles.

There is no need to book for this event but there is a minimum age restriction of 16yrs. Please dress appropriately with gloves and wellies or walking boots. Light refreshments will be provided. For more information call Karen Galtress on 651544/450736. Email: karen.galtress@gov.im.