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26 June 2009
Aliens in Bedfordshire. Can you help the Wildlife Trust?
The river banks of Bedfordshire are under attack from an alien species. The pink flowers (pictured right) belong to Himalayan Balsam. The flowers may be beautiful but it is an invasive species that is causing problems on some of our nationally important nature reserves. The Wildlife Trust needs you to help us find out where it is along the River Flit.
The 'explosive' invasion
Himalayan Balsam was introduced into Britain in 1839 as a garden plant. However, it escaped and quickly invaded riverbanks. It grows in dense stands, shading any native plants that are growing beneath. When it dies back in the autumn it can leave the river banks bare and, therefore, more vulnerable to erosion. The plants produce about 2,500 seeds in explosive seed pods that throw the seeds up to 6m. The seeds are easily transported along rivers, helping the population to spread.
What is the Wildlife Trust doing about it?
We are removing stands of Himalayan Balsam from Flitwick Moor Nature Reserve and other important wetlands in the Flit Vale. This work will preserve our native vegetation and help it to recolonise areas where Himalayan Balsam had taken over. However, a more strategic approach along the whole of the watercourse is needed to tackle the problem in the long term. Removing Himalayan Balsam from Flitwick Moor will only be short lived if seeds from other stands are still arriving.
How do I know if it’s Himalayan Balsam?
Look for the large purplish-pink slipper shaped flowers along with a reddish stem and dark green leaves with jagged edges. It is easiest to see between June and August when it is in flower. They are found along rivers and can grow up to 2m tall.
How you can help
If you live around the River Flit we are inviting you to help in mapping the distribution of this easily recognisable plant. A survey postcard (downloadable below) includes information about how to recognise Himalayan Balsam, what problems it can cause and has an easy way for you to record where you find it and send your results in.
If you would like more information call Katharine Banham at the Bedford office on 01234 364213.
If you have seen Himalayan Balsam near the River Flit we would like to know about it so we can assess how much of a problem it is! Please select the appropriate region and download the following documents, fill out and follow instructions for returning to the Widlife Trust.
River Flit Himalyan Balsam Survey. Charlton - Westoning
River Flit Himalyan Balsam Survey. Westoning - Clophill
River Flit Himalyan Balsam Survey. Clophill - Langford
Many thanks for your help.