WEST Cumbria Rivers Trust celebrated a very successful Balsam bashing this summer and extend their thanks to the volunteers who helped whether it was raining or shining.

Across the summer season, over 1000 hours were clocked by volunteers in the Cocker, Glenderamackin and Marron catchments, with 16 hectares of balsam pulled which is equivalent to roughly 22 football pitches! 

Himalayan balsam is an invasive non-native annual plant which grows vigorously over the summer months. Balsam produces 800 seeds per plant, outcompetes native plants and reduces biodiversity on riverbanks.

Izzie Mullin, Invasive Species Assistant Project Officer says, “We couldn’t have achieved what we have this summer without the help of all our wonderful volunteers; every balsam plant pulled has made a difference!"

"We have also been lucky enough to have the help of several community groups such as The Keswick Lions, Cockermouth Rotary Club and the Blencathra FSC, to name a few."

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