Controlling Priority Invasive Species

Biosecurity Kits: A First for IFI and the CIRB Project

Individual Angler Disinfection Kits produced by Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI) and funded by the Interreg IVA CIRB Project were launched by Minister Fergus O Dowd at the Ireland Angling Show in the National Show Centre, Swords in February 2013.

The kit comprises an instruction leaflet, 20 Virkon Aquatic (50 g) tablets, a 500 ml plastic trigger spray bottle, disposable gloves, a stiff bristle brush for cleaning boots, invasive species identification cards on a key ring, a metal ‘Stop the spread of invasive species’ badge, and an array of pertinent invasive species literature. All is contained in a convenient and durable carrier bag. This kit is the first of its type in the world and is now available from IFI and CIRB. It will help ensure that harmful aquatic invasive species are not spread by unsuspecting anglers as they move from one watercourse to another.

In addition to these individual kits, IFI have developed permanent disinfection facilities to cater for large groups of anglers attending organised competitions. These facilities were opened this year and have been well received.

Prosecution for dumping Japanese Knotweed in Northern Ireland

A man from Londonderry was recently prosecuted for dumping Japanese knotweed during building work at his house. Read the full story on the BBC news website.

CIRB Control and Biosecurity Conference 19^th-20^th February 2013

This year’s annual CIRB conference took place at the Clandeboye Estate, Co. Down in Northern Ireland on the 19^th -20^th February 2013. The conference titled “Invasive Species Control and Biosecurity” was attended by 70 stakeholders including project partners, governmental organisations and public bodies. The conference was opened by Professor Christine Maggs, head of the School of Biological Sciences in Queen’s University Belfast. Invasive species seminars and workshops were given by UK and ROI leading experts providing practical information on invasive species treatment methods, biosecurity, native plant restoration and also the future threats to local waterways. Informative talks were given by Dr Dario Fornara (University of Ulster) and Alba Bonas Piella (Ayrshire Rivers Trust) detailing research being carried out as part of the project. The guest speaker from CABI, Dr Robert Tanner, enlightened the conference with news and progress of biological control mechanisms and previous success stories in this field of research. The conference was a great success and we thank all participants and look forward to seeing you all at next year’s CIRB conference!

Japanese Knotweed: One Year On, 2011 to 2012

Positive reductions in Japanese knotweed density and distribution were noted from the previous year’s control program in many catchments (see photos below). In Scotland, surveys of control work have also shown positive signs indicating a successful year of treatment, despite the bad weather conditions. 

Awareness Event Success in Ayrshire August/September 2012

Invasive Plant Species talk to Scottish Waters

The Ayrshire Trust Manager, Stuart Brabbs, gave a presentation to Scottish water staff on the CIRB project and the impacts of invasive plant species on the 31st August. Following on from this meeting, Scottish Water have booked pesticide training for 79 members of staff.

CIRB talk to Stewarton Gardening Club & Community Group

Gordon Macdermid, CIRB project officer for Ayrshire, gave a talk to the Stewarton Gardening Club and Community Group on the 24th September. This presentation outlined the objectives of the CIRB project and the impacts of invasive species, focusing on Japanese Knotweed in particular. The Town of Stewarton has major problems with Japanese Knotweed and it was essential that awareness was raised in the community. Following this talk, the local Scout group has volunteered to help with the clearing of dead Japanese Knotweed stems to aid the control process.

For regular updates log on to Ayrshire’s blog.

Giant Hogweed: One Year On, 2011 to 2012

Noticeable differences in density and spread of Giant Hogweed were observed during 2012 in areas that had been successfully controlled during the 2011 field season. In addition, the Dee and Glyde catchment is already showing some regeneration of non-invasive plants, after receiving two full sprays during 2011 (see photos below). In Scotland, control of giant hogweed by contractors has proved to be very effective with notable reductions in plant numbers since last year.

Clipper Homecoming Festival 5^th-8^th July 2012

The biggest international sailing event recently came to the shores of Lough Foyle. The festival which lasted for over a week was visited by more than 200,000 people, while the environmental exhibition saw over 10,000 people walk through their doors during its four days.

The CIRB project team manned a stand at this exhibition. This provided a great opportunity to raise awareness of the threat and impacts of invasive species in the local area, while discussing the importance of the project with stakeholders and members of the general public.

CIRB Balsam Bashes 2012

The CIRB project recently held several balsam bashes on the River Faughan, which were well supported by members of the general public, anglers, local business and community groups, and pupils and teachers from St. Joseph's School, Derry. In addition to starting to tackle the threat of Himalayan balsam in the local area, these events are being held to raise pulic awareness about the impact of invasive species and to re-engage communities with their natural environment.

Balsam Bash at Campsie Bridge, 28th April 2012, in collaboration with Derry City Council as part of their Biodiversity Campaign.

CIRB Project Launch 1 February 2011  (QUB press release)

£2.6 million project to protect Irish and Scottish waterways

A £2.6 million project to protect the waterways of Ireland and Scotland will be launched today (Tuesday 1 February) at Queen's University Belfast. This critical project aims to control invasive plants, such as the giant hogweed, which are taking over river banks; limiting their use for angling and recreation, destroying ecosystems, and causing health problems for those who come into contact with the aggressive plants...[read full press release] 

BBC News

Belfast Telegraph

Irish Independent

Herald Scotland

Dumfries & Galloway Standard