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Giant Hogweed
A giant alien plant is invading riverbanks on the lower River Usk and it’s causing a growing problem for landowners, walkers and fishermen. Giant Hogweed on the Usk is mainly found between Crickhowell and the tidal limit downstream at Newbridge-on-Usk. It has also been found in small numbers close to the mouth of the river in Newport. In February a forum has been organised with guest speakers and an open discussion of the work of the project to tackle the problem.
The Giant Hogweed Forum has been organised for Tuesday 13 February at Coleg Gwent – Usk Campus between 7pm and 9pm. For further information please contact Stuart Craxford of Environment Agency Wales on 029 2024 5257 or Kate Rodgers of the Countryside Council for Wales on 029 2077 2400.
Giant Hogweed has a damaging effect on the native habitat, suppressing the growth of native plants and leaving banks bare of vegetation. It reduces the recreational value of the land and stops walkers and fishermen from accessing some areas. The sap from the plant can cause severe blisters, which are sensitive to sunlight, prompting public health concerns.
Working in partnership with a number of organisations including Brecon Beacons National Park Authority, Countryside Council for Wales, Keep Wales Tidy, Monmouthshire County Council, The National Trust and Newport City Council Environment Agency Wales set up and funded the first phase of a project to tackle the problem. During 2005 –2006 we surveyed, mapped and developed a control strategy. The process involved substantial consultation with riparian owners and other interested parties. Existing and new information was used to map the extent of the problem on the lower Usk.
Control work on the ground started in the Spring of 2006 with efforts centred on the Crickhowell and Abergavenny areas. The aim is to stop the seed production at the upper extent of the infestation and prevent the seeds entering the river and spreading the problem downstream. This is the start of a long-term eradication programme which it is estimated will take five to ten years.
Stuart Craxford, Agency Technical Officer (Biodiversity) said: We are looking at this problem and its solution in a detailed, systematic way. Every effort is being made to reduce and contain this invasive plant on the lower Usk, where it has become a growing problem. If the work is successful there will be benefits for conservation, recreation and flood defence maintenance work.