Controlling Invasive Riparian Plants and restoring Native Biodiversity

To control Giant Hogweed and Japanese Knotweed, invasive riparian species, which are spreading rapidly along the banks of rivers in Ayrshire, threatening native biodiversity, public health and restricting access to watercourses for recreation and education. The project has attracted substantial funding from an EU Interreg Bid enabling control of these species in a comprehensive and strategic manner across Ayrshire.
A range of funders are involved including the EU, local authorities and fishery organisations.
One training course for 8 persons will be run each year of the project providing skills and qualifications for a range of volunteers. These volunteers will be qualified and equipped to enable them to continue tackling any remaining invasive plants after the end of the prpoject.
Ayrshire Rivers Trust has developed considerable expertise in invasive weeds mapping and control over the last three years http://www.ayrshireriverstrust.org/invasive-weeds.htm .