Pull together and bash balsam in Branscombe
Ecologist Louise Woolley - Credit: Archant
Farmers at the top of Branscombe are calling on villagers to help them ‘eradicate’ an invasive plant and prevent its spread downstream.
Bulstone Springs Farm owners Jon Theo and Laura Williams say they have inherited a valley previously invaded by Himalayan balsam and are determined to stop it getting any further.
From 7.30pm on Tuesday (June 20) they will be hosting a presentation on the weed by ecologist Louise Woolley, which will be followed by a site visit, with refreshments included.
Louise is also organising balsam clearance sessions throughout the summer months.
The work is not heavy and requires no tools, just gloves, a long sleeved top and trousers and boots.
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The project, supported by the Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, will involve cutting the large areas of balsam but it can only be fully eradicated through hand pulling – and Jon and Laura hope everyone in the valley pulls together.
The first session is from 10.00am to 3.30pm on Monday, June 26.
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For more information, contact Kristy on branscombebalsam@outlook.com or 07511 263143.
