TWO conservation charities have joined forces to tackle an invasive species causing chaos in Cumbria’s ecosystem.

For the third year running, Friends of the Lake District have partnered with South Cumbria Rivers Trust to call for a network of volunteers to remove Himalayan Balsam on July 10.

Ruth Kirk, Friends of the Lake District’s Landscape engagement officer said: “Over the past two years, a willing army of volunteers has removed hundreds of thousands of these non-native plants. The difference is obvious in the areas that we’ve hit hard. But Himalayan Balsam is a pesky and persistent blighter; it creeps back again. However, bit by bit, each year, we are seeing a good reduction and this allows native species to flourish once more.”

“The majority of the work will involve pulling balsam by hand and breaking the stem at the root. It’s not technical so anyone who’s physically mobile can do it. And it is an immensely satisfying and oddly addictive task!

It’s a huge problem and there’s no easy way to tackle it. Elbow grease and the energy and enthusiasm of willing volunteers are the most effective tools in fighting this alien invader.

Himalayan Balsam is an invasive, non-native plant that spreads quickly, smothering and pushing out indigenous plants, particularly along riverbanks, lake shores and the edges of streams.

It was introduced to the UK in 1839, and quickly spread into the wild. Native species struggle to compete.

Anyone wishing to volunteer for the so-called Fight the Aliens – Big Balsam Bash can sign up by visiting Friends of the Lake District’s website.