This project will control and if possible eradicate four invasive alien riverbank plants: Giant Hogweed, Japanese Knotweed, Himalayan Balsam and Rhododendron. These form dense single-species stands and impact biodiversity. They also restrict access for fishing and recreation and reduce amenity values of adjacent parks and roadsides. In addition, the toxic sap of Giant Hogweed poses a health risk, particularly for children. These species will be controlled in river catchments in Ireland and Scotland. The project will run for 4 years (2011-2014) in order to manage and control effectively the regrowth that occurs from the soil seed bank and rhizomes.
