We want to thank all our dedicated volunteers who worked hard yesterday to remove the invasive Himalayan balsam from the riverbanks in Knowle Park.
Your hard work is not just a one-time effort but a vital part of our ongoing mission to protect the river ecosystem around Littlemead Brook. Your role is crucial, and we couldn’t do it without you.
Littlemead Brook is a key tributary that eventually merges into Cranleigh Waters and the River Wey, and your efforts are helping to keep it healthy and thriving.
Himalayan balsam (Impatiens glandulifera) is a non-native plant species that poses significant threats to the UK’s waterways.
Originally introduced as an ornamental plant in the 19th century, it has since spread uncontrollably across riverbanks and wetlands. Its impact on local ecosystems is severe due to its aggressive growth and reproductive capabilities.
One of the main issues with Himalayan balsam is its shallow root system. These roots fail to hold the soil together effectively, leading to increased erosion of riverbanks.
As the balsam displaces native vegetation, it leaves the banks vulnerable to collapse, degrading water quality and harming aquatic habitats.
Himalayan balsam grows rapidly and densely, outcompeting native plants for light, nutrients, and space. This shading effect suppresses the growth of indigenous flora, reducing biodiversity and altering the ecosystem’s structure.
When balsam plants die back in winter, the exposed soil is at greater risk of erosion, exacerbating the problem.
Our approach to managing Himalayan balsam involves manually pulling the plants out before they can set seed. This method is labour-intensive but effective.
Each plant can produce up to 800 seeds, which can be ejected up to 7 meters away, making early removal crucial. Consistent efforts year after year are necessary to keep the population under control.
However, our battle against Himalayan balsam cannot be won alone. It requires the collaboration of upstream neighbours and the wider community.
We encourage other custodians of local waterways to join us in these efforts, as coordinated action across the entire river system is essential for eradication.
For now, we focus on maintaining the health of the stretch of river flowing through Knowle Park.
Together, we can preserve the integrity of our beautiful riverbanks and ensure a thriving environment for native plants and wildlife.
Thank you once again to our volunteers. Your dedication makes a tangible difference in the fight against invasive species and safeguarding our natural heritage.
