Managing invasive plant species
EVERY farmer has some degree of infestation of noxious weeds such as docks, nettles, thistles and ragwort on their farm.
Control of such plants must take place on an annual basis through control methods such as spot spraying, topping, ploughing and reseeding. Some farmers in the south west also have to deal with the scourge of a number of invasive plants such as rhododendron, giant hogweed or Japanese knotweed.
Control and eradication of invasive species can prove difficult, and a number of issues will have to be considered in advance of removal of such plants.
Certain plant species can easily be confused with other plant species and, as a result, you may not have an invasive species on your land. Seek the help of an expert, or submit images to Invasive Species Ireland for help with identification. If identified as an invasive species, a site-specific management plan should be developed appropriate to the control or eradication of the species. The key part of the plan would be to survey and produce a map indicating the species distribution on the site, including the appropriate buffer zones for potential growth.
Mapping the distribution of the invasive species is an important part of the management process for some species such as Japanese knotweed. By year three or four of a programme, they may be more difficult to identify. If invasive species are located on designated sites (SAC, SPA) your management plan may not proceed as you;ll need to apply for a licence under nature conservation legislation. Check with your advisor if there are any designated sites for nature conservation close by, and assess whether the planned management work may impact on them.
It’s also important to consider surrounding properties and households before proceeding with a plan. Talk to adjacent land owners and make them aware of what you plan to do. Your plan will have a higher chance of success with support from the local community.
In formulating your species control plan you must decide whether a specialist contractor is needed, or can you successfully and safely carry it out yourself. For example, Himalayan Balsam could be hand-pulled by volunteers, whereas species which require herbicide treatment may require a professional. As invasive species spread easily, it will be necessary to set up cordoned-off areas/exclusion zones to stop unwanted visitors entering these areas while treatment is ongoing.
If waste is being transported to a landfill site, it is advisable to contact the licensed landfill site in advance to ensure they will accept the waste material.
All works should be carried out in line with relevant health and safety legislation and procedures, and all staff should be aware of health issues associated with invasive species, particularly giant hogweed.
Identify all resources needed to complete the site-management plan, and carry out regular monitoring to identify follow up works for any missed plants.
Remember, areas with invasive plant species are considered as ineligible land under the Basic Payment Scheme and Areas of Natural Constraint Scheme