Nidderdale’s Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is under threat from an invasive Himalayan plant.
Those that look after the beauty spots have tried to keep them under control but have now appealed to the public to help cut them back.
Himalayan balsam is infamous for its impact on the health of river banks and wildlife. Its explosive seed heads spread very easily.
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The plant overshadows native plant species and causes widespread erosion of river and canal banks. It leads to flooding and the suffocation of fish eggs.
Iain Mann, Nidderdale AONB manager, said:
“We have a dedicated team of consultants, contractors and volunteers surveying and removing the offending plant. It may just seem like a plant but biosecurity is important to protect against the invasion and needs to be taken seriously.”
Nidderdale’s AONB team is working on three water bodies in Upper Nidderdale to remove the plants. It is part of a healthy rivers project, funded by a European Union grant.
Himalayan balsam has large, pink flowers shaped like a bonnet. Photo: Elizabeth Bishop
The public can notify the team of Himalayan balsam on a national database through the plant tracker app that can be found here.
Although people can remove them if it is on their property it may be best to leave the plant to the experts as it could spread further if done incorrectly.
