Identifying and Controlling Non-native Invasive Water PlantsRecently non-native invasive plants have been discovered growing in ditches and ponds in the Middle Level area including New Zealand Pigmyweed Crassula helmsii and Parrot’s Feather Myriophyllum aquaticum. Left unchecked, they have the potential to form blankets of vegetation that choke waterways, block drains and results in a monoculture that stifles native species. Early identification and control of non-native species is a key factor in preventing their spread and taking control measures that are timely and effective. Land owners have a legal responsibility to prevent the spread of these species and other plants listed on schedule 9 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, if they occur on their property.

The Middle Level Commissioners, with help from the Ouse Washes Landscape Partnership scheme, supported by a grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund, are running a half-day course on identifying non-native invasive water plants on Friday 26th September 2014. The course will be led by Jonathan Graham, a very experienced botanist who has carried out vegetation surveys throughout the Fens over many years. It is a half-day course and will be based at the Oliver Cromwell Hotel, High Street, March, PE15 9LH starting at 9:30am and ending at 1:30pm. An option to leave earlier at the end of the indoor session is available.

Jonathan Graham will give identification guidance on non-native invasive species and the native species they are likely to be confused with. Information on the control of the different invasive species will be given. Samples of the likely non-native plants that may be encountered will be available to view as specimens. The presentation will be followed by a field trip to local drains to view plants that could be confused with the non-native species.

The course is open to all, especially members and staff of Internal Drainage Boards in the Middle Level and to land owners, farmers and anyone involved in the management of waterways or water bodies in the area. There is no charge for the course. Tea and coffee will be provided.

Please let me know if you are planning to attend as numbers will be limited. Courses of this type often cost a significant fee so please take advantage of this funded opportunity. If you are aware of someone who would be interested in attending the course, please pass on this invitation.

Best wishes,

Cliff

Cliff CarsonEnvironmental OfficerMiddle Level Commissioners85 Whittlesey RoadMarchCambridgeshirePE15 0AH Office   01354 602965Mobile   07765 597775Email   cliff.carson@middlelevel.gov.ukWeb   www.middlelevel.gov.uk