invasive species survey and method statement

Landscape Architecture Ecology Environmental Planning & Assessment Arboriculture

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appletons

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SPECTRA BUSINESS PARK, WARRINGTON

For

COUNTRYSIDE PROPERTIES (UK) LTD.

INVASIVE SPECIES SURVEY AND METHOD STATEMENT

SEPTEMBER 2016

APPLETONS REF:2082

__________________________________________________________________________________________ SPECTRA BUSINESS PARK, WARRINGTON INVASIVE SPECIES SURVEY SEPTEMBER 2016

appletons

appletons

17 Chorley Old Road

Bolton

Lancashire

BL1 3AD

Tel: 01204 393006

Email: [email protected]

Web: www.appletons.uk.com

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APPLETONS REF:2082


DOCUMENT CONTROL TITLE: INVASIVE SPECIES SURVEY AND METHOD STATEMENT PROJECT: SPECTRA BUSINESS PARK, WARRINGTON JOB NO: 2082 CLIENT: COUNTRYSIDE PROPERTIES (UK) LTD

Prepared by: Paula Bateson

Date: 07/11/16

Surveyor: Paula Bateson

Date: 23/09/16

Checked by: Lorna Cruice

Date: 18/11/16

Approved for distribution by: David Appleton

Date: 18/11/16

Document

Status

Description

Rev date

By

Approved

by

Issued

to

Issue date

Comments

FINAL Invasive species survey PB LC NS –

Countryside 18/11/16

Revisions to Final Document

Rev

Description

Rev date

By

Approved

by

Issued

to

Issue date

Comments

APPLETONS REF:2082


NON-TECHNICAL SUMMARY

In September 2016, Countryside Properties (UK) Ltd commissioned Appletons to undertake an invasive

species survey at the site of a proposed residential development at Spectra Business Park, Warrington.

The invasive species survey was undertaken on 23rd September 2016 by Paula Bateson, Senior Ecologist.

The survey area itself encompassed an industrial park and a golf driving range, bound by the River Mersey

to the east and south, and a railway line to the west. The survey identified dense established stands of

Japanese knotweed and Himalayan balsam within and surrounding the site area, along with scattered giant

hogweed, wall cotoneaster, montbretia and Japanese rose.

The above invasive species can cause environmental damage, are harmful to natural habitats, are poor

environments for wildlife and are listed on Schedule 9 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as

amended), for which it is illegal to plant or otherwise cause to grow in the wild. It is also desirable to deliver

a development that is free from invasive species within garden curtilages and areas open space to negate

post sales liabilities and for environmental management reasons.

Based on current draft site proposals, proposed development would directly impact upon areas of ground

contaminated with five of the six invasive plant species identified. In the absence of mitigation, the proposed

works pose a high risk of inadvertently causing the spread of these species, which would result in a breach

of legislation. In addition, giant hogweed poses a safety risk to site operatives, future owners of the site and

the completed residential home occupiers.

In order to ensure compliance with wildlife legislation and relevant planning policy, a method statement is

recommended in Section 5 of the current report, involving the following key principles:

Fence off any potentially contaminated ground that is not to be disturbed by the proposed

development;

Herbicide treatment of invasive plants within 7 m of site area between May-October of any given year

prior to works commencing;

Appropriate removal of treated vegetation;

Appropriate removal of any contaminated soil to be displaced by the works;

Site worker awareness and onsite procedures throughout construction works; and,

Post-works site management.

The above methods were considered the most appropriate considering the extent of invasive species on

and adjacent to the site, however other onsite treatment options are provided within the report.

APPLETONS REF:2082


CONTENTS:

1.0 Introduction

2.0 Methodologies

3.0 Desk Study Results

4.0 Presence / Likely Absence Survey Results

5.0 Potential Threats/Limitations to Proposed Works

6.0 Invasive Species Management Recommendations

7.0 References

APPENDIX 1:

Figure 1: Invasive Species Plan

APPENDIX 2:

Survey Photographs APPENDIX 3:

Invasive Species Legislation Invasive Ecology (GB Non Native Species Secretariat) APPENDIX 4:

Environment Agency Flow Chart Alternative Management Options

APPLETONS REF:2082


1.0 INTRODUCTION

Project background

1.1 In September 2016, Appletons was commissioned by Countryside Properties (UK) Ltd to undertake an

invasive species survey of the site of a proposed residential development at Spectra Business Park,

Warrington. To assess the extent and species of invasive plants across the site, a detailed walkover of the

site was undertaken and the species were plotted on scaled topographical survey map. The survey was

completed on 23rd September 2016.

Site description

1.2 The survey area measures approximately 15.49 ha and is centred at Ordnance Survey Grid Reference

SJ 601 868. The survey area was bound by the River Mersey to the east and south, a railway line to the

west and a business park to the north. Within the wider area, to the south-west the River Mersey meanders

between St Helens Canal and Manchester Ship Canal, and the land comprises a mix of farmland, woodland,

a land fill site and further west the habitats of the Mersey Estuary. The remainder of the surrounding

landscape is dominated by residential and industrial areas of Warrington.

1.3 At the time of the survey, the site itself consisted of two distinct sections; the northern half of the site was

dominated by the large industrial units and hardstanding of Spectra Business Park, whilst the southern half

of the site was dominated by a golf driving range. Surrounding the driving range, unmanaged habitats

formed a mosaic of rough grassland, tall ruderal herb, scattered scrub and bare ground. Trees and narrow

areas of woodland bound the site area to the south and east.

APPLETONS REF:2082


2.0 METHODOLOGIES

Desk Study

2.1 As part of the Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey, a desk top study was undertaken to identify records of

protected and invasive species within 1 km radius of the site survey boundary. Data was provided by

RECORD (The Biodiversity Information System for Cheshire, Halton, Warrington and Wirral). Data relating

to invasive plant species is summarised in Section 3.1.

Presence / likely absence survey

2.2 The survey comprised a direct search for evidence of invasive flora at the site area. This included a walkover

survey of any land likely to be impacted upon by the proposed works, and immediately adjacent ground, by a

surveyor experienced in identifying and surveying for invasive plant species. Data collected during the field

survey was used to inform the production of a survey map detailing the locations and extents of all stands

identified during the survey.

APPLETONS REF:2082


3.0 DESK STUDY RESULTS

3.1 As part of the Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey completed by Appletons in September 2016, a desk study

for records of protected and invasive species was completed. Table 3.1 provides a summary of invasive plant

species records identified by the desk study within a 1 km radius of the site. Absence of a species record

should not be taken as confirmation that a species is absent from the search area.

Species No. of Records

Most Recent Record

Proximity of Nearest Record to Study Area

Legislation

Flora

Japanese Knotweed Fallopia japonica

10 2015 20 m south WCA 9

Japanese Rose Rosa rugosa

2 2015 70 m east WCA 9

Himalayan Balsam Impatiens glandulifera

20 2015 80 m west WCA 9

Russian-vine Fallopia baldschuanica

1 2009 200 m south-east WCA 9

Giant Knotweed Fallopia sachalinensis

1 2011 370 m west WCA 9

Giant Hogweed Heracleum mantegazzianum

3 2011 400 m south-east WCA 9

Water Fern Azolla filiculoides

1 2005 >980 m west # WCA 9

Key:

#: Grid reference provided less than six figures WCA 9: Schedule 9 of Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended). Invasive, non-native, plants and animals.

APPLETONS REF:2082


4.0 PRESENCE / LIKELY ABSENCE SURVEY RESULTS

Introduction

4.1 The survey was carried out on 23rd September 2016 by Paula Bateson ACIEEM BSc(Hons), Senior Ecologist.

4.2 The survey visit was undertaken within the optimal survey period for surveying invasive flora (late-April to

end of October).

Survey constraints

4.3 The density of vegetation was such that individual shoots of invasive species may have gone unidentified.

The report details the main stands of each invasive species recorded.

Presence / likely absence survey

4.4 Data from the site visit is summarised in the text below. Figure 1 provided in Appendix 1 illustrates the

survey area and location and extent of invasive species stands recorded on site. Photographs are provided

in Appendix 2.

Survey results

Plants listed on Schedule 9 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended)

Japanese knotweed Fallopia japonica

4.5 A dense continuous stand of established Japanese knotweed was present to the south-west of the site,

which continued west along the River Mersey. Three further stands of Japanese knotweed were recorded

along the embankment of the River Mersey adjacent to the south and east of the site. Occasional stands of

Japanese knotweed were also recorded along Slutchers Lane, as well as along the netted fence of the golf

driving range. Scattered shoots of Japanese knotweed were recorded throughout an area of recently

disturbed land to the east of the golf driving range.

Giant hogweed Heracleum mantegazzianum

4.6 Individual giant hogweed plants were recorded scattered amongst the dense Japanese knotweed to the

south-west of the site area along the River Mersey. The plants were well established, with large white flower

umbels up to 0.3 m across arising from large lobed and jagged leaf clusters or rosettes. The height of the

flower spikes were generally in excess of 2 metres high. The closest giant hogweed to the site area was

located approximately 10 m from the site boundary. No giant hogweed was located within the site area itself.

Himalayan balsam Impatiens glandulifera

4.7 Continuous Himalayan balsam was recorded along the embankment of the River Mersey to the south and

east of the site. This had encroached into the site area along the south of the site. Himalayan balsam was

also recorded along the embankment of the railway line adjacent to the western site boundary.

APPLETONS REF:2082


Japanese rose Rosa rugosa

4.8 A single Japanese rose bush was present along the top of the wooded embankment through the centre of

the site.

Wall cotoneaster Cotoneaster horizontalis

4.10 A single cotoneaster shrub was recorded adjacent to Slutchers Lane.

Montbretia Crocosmia x crocosmiiflora

4.11 This species was recorded amongst the ornamental planting at the entrance to the golf club house.

Other invasive species

Narrow-leaved ragwort Senecio inaequidens

4.12 This species was identified scattered along the length of Slutchers Lane.

Broad-leaved everlasting pea Lathyrus latifolius

4.13 This species was identified amongst the linear belt of dense scrub across the centre of the site.

APPLETONS REF:2082


5.0 POTENTIAL THREATS / LIMITATIONS TO PROPOSED WORKS

5.1 Eight invasive plant species were identified by the survey, six of which are listed on Schedule 9 of the

Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended). A summary of the legal status of the species is provided

in Appendix 3, along with a brief description of the biology of each of the species.

5.2 Proposed works include the construction of over 500 residential properties with gardens and driveways.

Five of the six Schedule 9 species would be directly impacted upon (Himalayan balsam, Japanese

knotweed, Japanese rose, montbretia and wall cotoneaster).

5.3 In the absence of mitigation, the works pose a high risk of inadvertently causing the invasive species on

and adjacent to the site to spread, due to disturbance of ground within the site. The development is also

close to the River Mersey which could disperse invasive species should stems / seeds or rooting rhizomes

be allowed to fall into the water course. Movement of site personnel and machinery during the construction

phase within contaminated areas of land could also inadvertently spread the plants and contaminated soils.

5.4 Untreated Japanese knotweed within 7 metres of the proposed development has the potential to damage

hard surfaces if there are any unsealed joins or cracks within the bases of the proposed structures or porous

surfaces as their underground rhizomes are able to spread quickly through these weakness and produce

above ground shoots thus weakening and damaging surfaces, structures and foundations.

5.5 Contact with sap from giant hogweed can cause severe blistering of the skin following exposure to sunlight

and/ or ultra violet light.

5.6 Section 6 recommends solutions to ensure the invasive species do not cause a risk to the project and site

workers, and that works do not risk breaching legislation is causing the spread of Schedule 9 invasive

species.

APPLETONS REF:2082


6.0 MANAGEMENT RECOMMENDATIONS

6.1 The current report does not insist on the eradication of Japanese knotweed and Himalayan balsam along

the embankments of the River Mersey adjacent to the site. Due to the extent of the invasive species along

the River Mersey, this would be near impossible. However, measures should be implemented to ensure the

eradication of invasive species where the proposed work directly impact upon contaminated ground and

ensure works do not result in the spread of invasive species.

Himalayan balsam and Japanese knotweed

6.2 For Himalayan balsam and Japanese knotweed, Appletons recommends a mitigation strategy based

around the following key principles:

Fence off any potentially contaminated ground that is not to be disturbed by the proposed

development;

Herbicide treatment of invasive plants within 7 m of site area between May-October and appropriate

removal of treated vegetation;

Appropriate removal of any contaminated soil to be displaced by the works;

Site worker awareness and onsite procedures throughout construction works; and,

Post-works site management.

Fence off any potentially contaminated ground that is not to be disturbed by the proposed development

6.3 Any areas of invasive species that do not need to be disturbed on site or adjacent to the site should be

fenced off with 1.5 m high protective fencing throughout development works. This will prevent accidental

spreading of the invasive species by traffic.

Herbicide treatment of invasive plants within 7 m of proposed works areas between May-October and

appropriate removal of treated vegetation

6.4 All Schedule 9 invasive species within the proposed works areas, and within 7 m of the proposed works

areas, should treated with herbicide in agreement with the adjacent landowner.

6.5 If treatment of invasive species outside of the site boundary cannot be agreed with the adjacent land owner,

a root barrier membrane would ensure invasive species do not encroach into the curtilage of the proposed

residential properties.

6.6 Treatment should be undertaken within the growing season (May-October), but can be most effective at

different times of year for different species:

Japanese Knotweed treatment is most effective when undertaken in August, when the foliage is

drawing nutrients back into the rhizome, ensuring maximum absorption.

Treatment of Himalayan balsam should be ideally undertaken before seeds are shed (before mid-

July).

APPLETONS REF:2082


6.7 There are four recognized herbicides licensed to be used on invasive flora (Table 6.1). The choice of

herbicide is dependent upon:

Proximity to watercourse;

Ecological sensitivity of the surrounding vegetation; and,

The time lapse before soil is to be re-used or the area re-seeded.

Table 6.1: Summary of herbicides for invasive species control

6.8 During the period of treatment, the site should be regularly monitored by a suitably qualified person to

identify any new shoots and, if necessary, instruct contractors to continue.

6.9 Consent should to be sought from the Environment Agency in advance any controlled application of

appropriate herbicide within 1 metre of the top of the bank of a water course.

6.10 The herbicide will be in liquid form and should include a wetting agent, which will improve its effectiveness.

The solution strength and application of herbicide should be in accordance with the manufacturer’s

recommendations.

6.11 If there is rainfall within 6 hours of application the herbicide should be resprayed.

6.12 Allow herbicide to take effect; usually 2-6 weeks.

6.13 Cut and remove dead aerial parts. The cut material can be either:

Taken to a suitably licensed or permitted landfill site as controlled waste;

Fully dried out without contact with soil, so either spread across a controlled area of hardstanding,

on a plastic sheet or raised wooden platform;

Burnt within an oil drum, providing compliance with local and national legislation on burning.

6.14 Repeat the above herbicide treatment and removal of treated vegetation as many times as possible

throughout the summer growing season.

Appropriate removal of any contaminated soil to be displaced by the works

6.15 Any soil contaminated with rhizomes or seeds from invasive species dug out as part of the proposed works

should be excavated under the supervision of an experienced clerk of works. Japanese knotweed rhizomes

Herbicide Affects grasses

Affects trees

Time of application Approved for use in or near water*

Persistence

Glyphosate Yes No (if used with care)

May – October (late season preferable)

Yes (certain formulations)

Non-persistent

2,4-D Amine No No May – October (early season preferable)


Up to 1 month

Triclopyr No No May – October (early season preferable)

No Up to 6 weeks

Picloram No Yes All year (soil treatment in winter)

No Up to 2 years

*: Near water = within 5 m of standing water, running water, drainage channel or dry ditch.

APPLETONS REF:2082


can be present up to 7 m from the parent plant and up to three metres in depth (sometimes further/deeper

in exceptional circumstances).

6.16 Contaminated soil should be removed from site and taken to a suitable disposal facility. The Environmental

Protection Act 1990 includes the potential to classify soil and other waste containing viable propagules of

invasive non-native plant species as controlled waste.

6.17 Waste containing Japanese knotweed must be disposed of in accordance with official Environment Agency

guidance designed to prevent further spread of the plant, which includes measures such as burying the

contaminated material at a depth of at least 5 m. Before transferring Japanese knotweed, the waste disposal

facility should be contacted to:

Check in advance that the facility has a permit to accept material containing invasive plants.

Check in advance that the facility has the capacity to bury the Japanese knotweed at a depth of

over 5 m.

6.18 Any haulage lorries or dumpers carrying contaminated material should be covered so that no waste can

escape.

6.19 Offsite disposal is considered the most practical method of invasive species removal in this instance,

however if the contaminated soil and/or plants cannot be disposed of offsite, alternative options approved

by the Environment Agency are summarised within Appendix 4.

6.20 Any contaminated spoil temporarily stored on site should either be stored within a fenced area of

hardstanding, on a thick plastic sheet or a raised wooden platform, over 10 m from any water course.

Site worker awareness and onsite procedures throughout works

6.21 Contractors should be given a ‘toolbox talk’ in respect of the presence of invasive species including information

on their recognition, legislation, danger to human health and the risks to the project. All site operatives should

be made aware of the requirements associated with the removal/disposal of invasive species in order to

help limit accidental spread.

6.22 Japanese knotweed should never be strimmed, mowed (without collection bucket) or chipped. Himalayan

balsam may be stimmed before mid-July, before the plant has set seed.

6.23 Site works should keep within the site area, and not disturb ground beyond the protective fencing outlined in

Section 6.3 of the current report. If works must temporarily enter into any fenced off contaminated area, time

within the contaminated area should be kept to a minimum, and the following measures should be

implemented:

A thick ground sheet should be laid down to prevent contaminated soil being picked up by machinery

and footwear.

APPLETONS REF:2082


Care should be taken to ensure that contaminated material is not dropped or transferred to any

other locations.

Upon leaving the site areas, all footwear and machinery should be thoroughly cleaned within a

designated area. This area should be as close as possible to the contaminated area on which the

machinery has been working to avoid the spread of invasive species. This area should be monitored

in the spring for species growth and a cutting / pulling / spraying program implemented if necessary.

Any machinery used in clearing contaminated areas should be similarly cleaned.

The precautions outlined above should be in place throughout the full course of the works. In winter,

no growth may be present above ground but rhizomes of Japanese knotweed will still be viable or

dormant and seeds persist over winter. Transporting roots and seeds off site on vehicle tracks will

spread the plant.

Post-works site management

6.24 Adhering to the above recommendations should ensure compliance with relevant legislation. In the interest

of best ecological practice and to contribute to local and national Biodiversity Action Plans, long-term

management of invasive species adjacent to the site area could be incorporated into the proposed

landscaping scheme, providing the stability of the river banks would not be compromised.

Montbretia, wall cotoneaster and Japanese rose

Mechanical / manual methods

6.25 Montbretia, wall cotoneaster and Japanese rose were recorded as individual singular shrubs, and as such

mechanical / manual methods could be utilised to achieve the removal of these species, detailed below.

Montbretia

6.26 Montbretia grows from extensive chains of underground corms. If corms are broken up they can produce

new plants potentially making the problem worse. A deep excavation should therefore be made under and

around the plant so that all corms are lifted.

Wall cotoneaster

6.27 Cotoneaster shrubs spread by germination of their berries. This plant can be dug out / hand-pulled or wood

chipped. Wood chipping will be inappropriate if there are berries on the shrub because these will still be

able to germinate in the future (there is no problem if the shrub is not carrying berries).

Japanese rose

6.28 The most effective method of removal of this plant is mechanical removal by digging up the plant, ensuring

that all rhizomes and roots are removed.

APPLETONS REF:2082


Chemical methods

6.29 If the mechanical / manual options detailed above are not feasible, wall cotoneaster, montbretia and

Japanese rose can be effectively treated with herbicide whilst the plants are actively growing. Methods

associated with herbicide treatment of plants are provided in Sections 6.4 to 6.13.

6.30 The disposal of Montbretia, wall cotoneaster and Japanese rose on site or off site should follow the steps

outlines in Sections 6.4 to 6.19.

Narrow-leaved ragwort and Broad-leaved everlasting pea

6.31 Disturbing the narrow-leaved ragwort and broad-leaved everlasting pea on site would not result in a breach

of legislation, as these two species are not included on Schedule 9 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act,

however interest of best ecological practice, these species should be hand pulled and disposed of at a

household waste facility.

Giant hogweed

6.32 Ground contaminated with giant hogweed would not be impacted upon by the proposed development, and

as such no breach in legislation is anticipated. However, to minimize the risk of giant hogweed colonizing

nearby ground, and in the interest of the safety of future residents, it is recommended that the hogweed

adjacent to the site is managed in agreement with the relevant landowner.

6.33 Recognised herbicides for treating giant hogweed are listed in Table 6.1. Treatment of giant hogweed

should be ideally undertaken before seeds are shed (before late-August).

6.34 Small infestations can be controlled by cutting the plant at a 45 degree angle below ground to ensure

damage to the rootstock and to prevent regrowth from the base. This should be done in April or May. Hand

cutting of Giant Hogweed should never be undertaken unless the operator is wearing full protective clothing

to prevent skin contamination by the sap.

6.35 Seeds persist in soil for up to five years and as such root cutting / herbicide treatment would have to be

undertaken every year and subsequently monitored to ensure no regrowth.

6.36 The 1.5 m high protective fencing recommended in Section 6.3 throughout development works will protect

site workers from the dangers of giant hogweed throughout the construction work.

6.37 Giant hogweed should never be strimmed, mowed (without collection bucket) or chipped.

APPLETONS REF:2082


7.0 REFERENCES

Appletons (2016) Report 2082: Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey - Spectra Business Park.

Environment Agency (2013) The Knotweed Code of Practice: Managing Japanese Knotweed on

Development Sites’. Available:

https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/296930/LIT_2695_df1209.p

df

Maguire, C.M., Cosgrove, P.J. and Kelly, J. (2008). Best Practice Management Guidelines Giant hogweed

(Heracleum mantegazzianum). Prepared for NIEA and NPWS as part of Invasive Species Ireland.

Non-Native Species Secretariat (2016) Species Information. Available:

http://www.nonnativespecies.org/index.cfm?sectionid=47

Welsh Development Agency (1998) The Control of Japanese Knotweed in Construction and Landscape

Contracts: Model Specification. Welsh Development Agency

APPENDIX 1

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±Legend

Site boundary

Japanese knotweed - dense stand

!( Japanaese knotweed - individual plant

Himalayan balsam

Giant hogweed

! Wall cotoneaster

!( Montbretia

!( Japanese rose

!( Narrow-leaved Ragwort

! Broad-leaved Everlasting Pea

Landscape Architecture Ecology Enviromental Planning & Assessment Aboriculture

appletonsFigure 1

Title: Invasive Species SurveySPECTRA BUSINESS PARK, WARRINGTON

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River Mersey

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APPENDIX 2

APPLETONS REF:2082


Photo 1 Dense Japanese knotweed and scattered giant hogweed south of golf club house, adjacent to southern site boundary along River Mersey

Photo 2

Japanese knotweed against site boundary fence, south of golf club house carpark

Photo 3 Continuous Himalayan balsam on site along treeline south of driving range

Photo 4 Japanese knotweed along embankment east of Slutchers Lane

Photo 5 Shoots of Japanese knotweed within habitat mosaic east of driving range

Photo 6 Narrow leaved ragwort along Slutchers Lane

Japanese knotweed

Japanese knotweed Narrow leaved ragwort

Giant hogweed

Japanese knotweed

Japanese knotweed

Himalayan baslam

APPLETONS REF:2082


Photo 7 Japanaese knotweed amongst scrub and treeline along river embankment, east of site boundary

Photo 8 Japanese knotweed along west of Slutchers Lane

Japanese knotweed Japanese knotweed

APPENDIX 3

APPLETONS REF:2082


Invasive Species Legislation The Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 provides the primary controls on the release of non-native species into the wild in Great Britain. It is an offence under section 14(2) of the Act to ‘plant or otherwise cause to grow in the wild’ any plant listed in Schedule 9, Part II. This includes Japanese knotweed, giant hogweed, Himalayan balsam, wall cotoneaster, montbretia and Japanese rose. Section 33 of the Environmental Protection Act 1990 states that a person shall not:

deposit controlled waste, or knowingly cause or knowingly permit controlled waste to be deposited in or on any land unless a waste management licence authorising the deposit is in force and the deposit is in accordance with the licence;

treat, keep or dispose of controlled waste, or knowingly cause or knowingly permit controlled waste to be treated, kept or disposed of:

i. in or on any land, or ii. by means of any mobile plant, except under and in accordance with a waste management

licence;

treat, keep or dispose of controlled waste in a manner likely to cause pollution of the environment or harm to human health.

Section 34 (3) of the Environmental Protection Act 1990 and in Northern Ireland Section 5 (3) of the Waste and Contaminated Land (NI) Order 1997 describe the types of persons authorised to carry or dispose of waste. The client must ensure that anyone removing wastes from a business’s premises is one of the following:

An authority which is a waste collection authority.

A person who has a waste management licence.

A person who is registered as a carrier of controlled waste.

A person exempt from registration as a carrier of controlled waste.

In Scotland, a waste disposal authority acting in accordance with a resolution made under section 54 of the Environmental Protection Act 1990.

Any district council in Northern Ireland. As each company is responsible for its own waste, it is important that a client should ask for proof that an individual/business is authorised to handle or transport it. The responsibility for the waste does not stop when the Waste Carrier removes it from the site; it extends until the waste has either been finally and properly disposed of or fully recovered. It is important to must ensure that the waste is disposed of at a suitably licensed or exempt facility. Further details available on the Environment Agency website www.environment-agency.gov.uk.

© Invasive Weeds Agency

Species Description

Key ID Features

Scientific name: Cotoneaster species AKA: Cotoneasterau (Welsh) Native to: Majority of species originate from east Asia Habitat: Rough ground

www.nonnativespecies.org

Produced by Kevin Doidge, Max Wade, Vicky Ames and Kelly McKee of RPS

Cotoneaster

Himalayan cotoneaster Non-native (Cotoneaster simonsii)

Leaves alternate along the stem

Leaves not serrated

Red/orange fruits in clusters

Shiny and hairless upper surface of the leaf

A large group of small trees and prostrate shrubs that can be either evergreen or deciduous. They are be-coming increasingly naturalised due to birds which eat the small red berries and spread the seed. There is one native species, wild Cotoneaster (Cotoneaster cambricus) which occurs as a few individuals in North Wales. This ID sheet includes those introduced species which are relatively common. Where they become established they can become dominant to the exclusion of native species. Himalayan cotoneaster (Cotoneaster simonsii) is an erect deciduous shrub 3-4 metres high with 1.5-2.5 cm long leaves; small-leaved cotoneaster (Cotoneaster microphyllou) is an evergreen low-growing shrub with very small leaves (0.5-0.8cm long) and tree cotoneaster (Cotoneaster frigidus) is a deciduous or semi-evergreen shrub or small tree with leaves between 6-15 cm long and flow-ers in dense clusters. All these species have leaves which are shiny and hairless on the upper surface and slightly hairy on the lower surface. Cotoneaster species do not have thorns. Wall cotoneaster (Cotoneaster horizontalis) is the most widely recorded species and is distinctive in having stems that spread horizontally in flattened herring-bone like branches and bears single flowers. Unlike the other cotoneasters mentioned, the underside of leaves of this species are relatively hair-less. Cotoneasters have been in cultivation in GB since 1824 and there are over 100 species now widely cultivated in the UK. Other species could also become naturalised. Cotoneaster species are listed under Schedule 9 to the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 with respect to England and Wales. As such, it is an offence to plant or otherwise cause these species to grow in the wild. For details of legislation go to www.nonnativespecies.org/legislation.

Slightly hairy lower surface of the leaf

Himalayan cotoneaster (Cotoneaster simonsii)

Identification throughout the year

Similar Species

Distribution

Photos from: Kevin Doidge, Max Wade, Mike Harris

References and further reading:

Johnson, O and More, D (2004) “Collins Tree Guide”. HarperCollins

Preston, C D, Pearman, D A and Dines, T A (editors) (2002) “New Atlas of the British and Irish Flora”. Oxford University Press

Stace, C (1999) “Field Flora of the British Isles”. Cambridge University Press

Evergreen species such as the small-leaved cotoneas-ter can be identified throughout the year by its leaves. Deciduous species can be identified by the presence of the red berries which can remain through-out winter and, in the case of wall cotoneaster, by the distinctive herringbone-shaped branches.

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Some other species of Cotoneaster

Cotoneaster species are widespread throughout Britain.

Wall cotoneaster Non-native (Cotoneaster horizontalis)

Small-leaved cotoneaster Non-native (Cotoneaster microphyllus)

Firethorn Non-native (Pyracantha coccinea)

A shrub with small serrated leaves that alternate along the stem, which has long thorns

Wilson’s honeysuckle Non-native (Lonicera nitida)

Similar to the small leaved cotoneasters, leaves opposite not alternate

Aromatic wintergreens Non-native (Gaultheria species)

An evergreen shrub with alternate leaves and bell shaped flowers, unlike the five petalled flowers of cotoneasters

Evergreen habit

Other similar species which may be confused with cotoneaster include: Escallonia (Escallonia macrantha) - an evergreen shrub which has alternate serrated leaves and numerous pinkish-red flowers, no thorns; Barberry (Berberis vulgaris) - a thorny shrub with small serrated leaves, yellow flowers and red lozenge-shaped berries; and Sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides) - a thorny densely branched shrub with alternate long thin leaves with bright orange berries on female plants.

Herringbone-shaped branches

Himalayan cotoneaster Non-native (Cotoneaster simonsii)

Species Description Scientific name: Crocosmia x crocosmifolia Hybrid of: Crocosmia aurea x Crocosmia pottsii AKA: Coppertips, Falling Stars, Montbresia (Welsh) Native to: Hybrid, parent species from South Africa Habitat: Hedgerows, road verges, banks of lakes and rivers, beside woods and waste land, widely grown in gardens

Crocosmia species are easily recognised when in flower by the distinct shape and colour of their flower heads. All are non-native in the UK. The hybrid montbretia, with relatively short stems and orange flowers, is the main species to have es-caped into the wild; however, a number of other ornamental Crocosmia species are grown in gardens and other landscaped areas. When not in flower, Crocos-mia species are more difficult to identify. Look for rusty brown dead leaves and remains of previous years flowering heads. Montbretia was originally created in France from parent plants of South African origin. Introduced to the UK in 1880 as a garden plant. It escaped by 1911 both naturally and through the disposal of garden waste, and spread rapidly across the UK in the latter part of the 20th century. Can completely dominate habitat where it grows, sometimes excluding native plant species. Spreads mainly by rhizomes, rarely by seed. Montbretia is listed under Schedule 9 to the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 with respect to England and Wales. As such, it is an offence to plant or otherwise allow this species to grow in the wild. For details of legislation go to www.nonnativespecies.org/legislation.

Montbretia

For more information visit www.nonnativespecies.org

Produced by Olaf Booy, Max Wade and Vicky White of RPS

Leaves less than 3cm wide, upright, flat, spear shaped and bright green

Flowers orange and tubular in nodding clusters

Flowers borne on long spikes 2.5 cm

Long stamens

Corm: a bulblike organ that provides the plant with energy

Grows to 60cm tall, usually found in clusters on road verges and in hedge-

2.5 cm

Key ID Features


Similar Species

Distribution Widespread, most common in western areas of England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland. Usually close to gardens. Not confined to urban areas.

Montbretia is easily distinguished from other species when it is in flower between July and September. Identification outside of this period is more difficult. A key feature is the dense stands that it forms, which can spread to cover large areas. In addition, its smooth, upright, green leaves are relatively characteristic (although these can be confused with iris species). Green leaves are usually present from spring to autumn; dead brown leaves, dead flowering stems and seed heads are present are present throughout winter. Identification can also be checked year round by digging up the plant’s corm.

Photos from: Olaf Booy, Joanne Denyer, Sue Hocking (Cornwall Wildlife Trust), Peter Llewellyn, Max Wade, Vicky White


Blamey, M, Fitter, R and Fitter, A (2003) “The Wild Flowers of Britain and Ireland. The Complete Guide to the British and Irish Flora.” A & C Black



Iris species Native (various species - example shown is stinking iris )

When not in flower iris (pictured) can be confused with montbretia

Iris flowers are distinctly different from montbretia

Crocosmia species Non-native (various species - example shown is ‘Lucifer’ variety )

Flowers often different colour (this variety is a vivid red and taller than montbretia).

Similar shaped upright leaves with brown die back

Seed heads of iris differ from those of montbretia

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Other Crocosmia species are rarely found outside of the landscaped environment and rarely behave in an invasive manner. Crocosmia species in the wild that are invasive are most likely to be montbretia.

Seed head Dense stands present over winter



Japanese Knotweed

Key ID Features

Species Description Scientific name: Fallopia japonica AKA: Japanese Bamboo, Pysen saethwr (Welsh), Polygonum cuspidatum, Reynoutria japonica Native to: Japan, Taiwan, northern China Habitat: Common in urban areas, particularly on waste land, railways, road sides and river banks Tall herbaceous perennial with bamboo like stems. Often grows into dense thickets. Characteristic leaves and stems, persistence of last year’s dead canes and distinctive rhizome (underground root-like stems) enables year round identification. Introduced in the early 19th century as an ornamental plant. Now common and wide-spread across the UK. Spreads rapidly in the wild by natural means and as a result of spread by humans. Spread is solely by vegetative means, either fragments of rhizome or stem. Does not produce seed in the UK. Negative impacts include outcompeting native flora, contributing to river bank erosion and increasing the likelihood of flooding. Can also cause significant delays and cost to development as well as structural damage (it can grow through asphalt and some other surfaces). Japanese Knotweed is listed under Schedule 9 to the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 with respect to England, Wales and Scotland. As such it is an offence to plant of other-wise cause Japanese knotweed to grow in the wild. Under the Environmental Protection Act 1990, Japanese Knotweed is classified as controlled waste. For details of legislation go to www.nonnativespecies.org/legislation.

Zig-zag stems

Shield shaped leaves

Flat base

Lush green colour

Purple speckled stems

Regular nodes (like bamboo)

Rhizome crown at base of plant

Cross-section

Bright orange inside

Rhizome White shoots

Flowers in summer Spring

Winter

Distribution Widespread and common across the UK. Notably extensive infestations are found in the south-west of England, south Wales and Greater London, however similarly extensive populations can also be found elsewhere.


Blamey, M, Fitter, R and Fitter, A (2003) “The Wild Flowers of Britain and Ireland. The Com-plete Guide to the British and Irish Flora.” A & C Black

Child, L E and Wade, P M (2000) “The Japanese Knotweed Manual”. Packard

Environment Agency (2006) “The Japanese Knotweed Code of Practice”. Environment Agency



Photos from: Olaf Booy, Helen Parish, Max Wade, Vicky White


Giant Knotweed Non-native

(Fallopia sachalinensis)

Hybrid Non-native

(Fallopia x bohemica)

Similar Species The species most likely to be confused with Japanese knotweed are those with which it is closely related: giant knotweed and its hybrid. Both are relatively uncommon in the UK. Key differences between these are given below.

Japanese Knotweed

For comparison

Source: Child and Wade (2000). The Japanese Knotweed Manual

Much larger leaf

Intermediate size and shape

Smaller leaf

Flat base

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40c

m

Lobed base

up to

23c

m

10-1

5cm

Summer

Species Description

Key ID Features

Giant Hogweed



Up

to 5

m

Up to 3m

Sharply divided / serrated leaves

Bristles on underside

Blotchy or rarely continuous purple

Stems usually with sharp bristles

Stem 5-10cm diameter

Up to 80cm Flower white or rarely pinkish

Umbrella shaped flower

Seeds have dark stripes (oil ducts) 2 on one

side, 4 on the reverse

1.5

cm

Scientific name: Heracleum mantegazzianum AKA: Efwr enfawr (Welsh) Native to: Caucasus mountains in south west Russia and Georgia Habitat: Widespread, most common on river banks

Easy to identify when fully grown by height, size of leaves and size of flowers. Can be confused with native hogweed when not fully grown or when growth is stunted (e.g. regrowth after cutting).

Introduced as an ornamental. First recorded wild in the UK in the late 19th century. Spreads solely by seeds, mainly through deliberate plant-ing, wind dispersal and in water courses. Now common across much of the UK. Contact with any part of this plant must be avoided as even minute amounts of sap can cause blistering of the skin following expo-sure to sunlight. Other negative impacts include out-competing native flora, river bank erosion and increase in flood risk. Can cause delays/additional costs on development sites where the plant must be removed as controlled waste in order to comply with legislation.

Giant hogweed is listed under Schedule 9 to the Wildlife and Country-side Act 1981 with respect to England, Wales and Scotland. As such it is an offence to plant or otherwise cause this species to grow in the wild. Under the Environmental Protection Act 1990, giant hogweed is also classified as controlled waste.

For details of legislation go to www.nonnativespecies.org/legislation.

Up to 50,000 seeds per plant held on seed head

Up

to 2

m

Photos from: Olaf Booy, Steve Smith, Vicky White

Identification through-out the year

Spring

Summer

Winter

Distribution Widespread and common across much of the UK. Extensive infestations are found particularly in Scotland and the north of England. Less abun-dant in Cornwall. Often associated with large riv-ers.


Blamey, M, Fitter, R and Fitter, A (2003) “The Wild Flowers of Britain and Ireland. The Com-plete Guide to the British and Irish Flora.” A & C Black

Booy, O and Wade, P M (2007) “Giant Hogweed Management in the United Kingdom”. RPS Group plc

Pyšek P, Cock, M J W, Nentwig, W & Ravn, H P (2007) “Ecology and Management of Giant Hog-weed (Heracleum mantegazzianum)”. CAB Inter-national


Similar Species When in full height it is difficult to confuse giant hogweed with any other plant. While still growing or stunted, possibly as a result of distur-bance, it can be confused with some other native plants. The most likely species with which it might confused is hogweed. Key differences between hogweed and giant hogweed include the height, width of stem, size of leaf, size of flower head and size of seed.

Hogweed Native (Heracleum sphondylium)

Comparison of seeds

Giant Hogweed Hogweed

1cm

Comparison of leaves

Comparison of stems

Giant Hogweed

Hogweed

Hogweed Giant Hogweed

1cm

2m

Hogweed flowers heads are much smaller, up to 15cm

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Species Description

Key ID Features

Scientific name: Impatiens glandulifera AKA: Policeman’s Helmet, Indian Balsam, Jac y Neidiwr (Welsh) Native to: West and central Himalayas Habitat: Found mostly on river banks and in damp woodland, can grow in other damp habitat .

Himalayan Balsam

For more information visit www.nonnativespecies.org


Leaves and side branches arise from stem joints

Leaf may have reddish mid-rib

Leaves opposite, or in whorls of 3-5

Slender to elliptical

Leave have finely serrated edges

Up to 15cm long

Stem is hollow, sappy, fleshy and brittle

Stem green to red early in the year, turning pink to red in summer

Up to 2m tall

Short roots with distinctive structure

Side shoots / roots form along the stem

2.5 to 4cm long Pink (rarely white) often with spots and markings inside

Trumpet shape with wide petals

Sweetly scented

Seed capsule, approx 2.5cm long, hanging on red stalks. Explode on touch when ripe.

Seeds

App

rox

2.5

cm lo

ng

A tall, attractive, annual herb with explosive seed heads. Although easy to iden-tify as a mature plant with its pink-purple flowers, fleshy stem and characteristic leaves, the seedlings and last year’s dead stems of this annual are more difficult to spot. Introduced as a garden plant in the early 19th century and first recorded in the wild in 1855. Often favoured by the general public for its aesthetic appeal and is still deliberately planted on occasion. Now widespread in the UK, especially along urban rivers. Spreads solely by seeds, which are small and easily carried by wind or water. Out-competes native species in ecologically sensitive areas, particularly river banks. Where it grows in dense stands along river banks it can impede flow at times of high rainfall, increasing the likelihood of flooding. Die back of extensive stands over winter can leave river banks bare and exposed to erosion. Himalayan balsam is listed under Schedule 9 to the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 with respect to England and Wales. As such, it is an offence to plant or otherwise allow this species to grow in the wild. For details of legislation go to www.nonnativespecies.org/legislation.


Photos from: Olaf Booy, Mike Harris, Max Wade

Flowers slightly earlier, June to August

Can be identified at most times of the year: March-June by its seedlings, stem and leaf shape, from July to September by its stem, leaf shape and flowers. More difficult to identify over winter (October to February), look for hay like remains and distinctive root structure.

Distribution Widespread and common across the whole of the UK. Primarily on riverbanks and in other damp areas.


Blamey, M, Fitter, R and Fitter, A (2003) “The Wild Flowers of Britain and Ireland. The Com-plete Guide to the British and Irish Flora”. A & C Black



Similar Species

Hay like remains in winter Root structure in winter

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Flower is similar in shape but orange in colour Smaller than

Himalayan balsam, growing to a height of 1.2m

Smaller leaves, with fewer serrations

Orange balsam is much less aggressive than Himalayan balsam, forming smaller less dense stands

Orange Balsam Non-Native (Impatiens capensis)

Species Description

Key ID Features

Scientific name: Rosa rugosa AKA: Rhosyn Japan (welsh) Native to: East Asia Habitat: Hedgerows, sand dunes, sea-cliffs, road verges and waste ground


Produced by Alison Jukes, Vicky Ames, Max Wade and Kelly McKee of RPS

Japanese Rose

This vigorously suckering, deciduous shrub has many slender thorns on its stems and with its characteristic purplish-pink flowers is readily distinguishable from other roses found in the wild. Typically resulting from garden escapes or material thrown out from gardens. It is often well-naturalised, forming extensive and dense thickets, which can smother native species, so reducing biodiversity and dominating amenity planting. Although introduced into cultivation in the UK in the late 18th century, it was not successfully grown until the mid-19th century. It is very common in gardens, parks and amenity plantings, often established in mass plantings. It was first recorded in the wild in Cum-berland in 1927. Its distribution in the wild is increasing. Japanese rose is listed under Schedule 9 to the Wildlife and Country-side Act 1981 with respect to England and Wales. As such, it is an offence to plant or otherwise allow this species to grow in the wild. For details of legislation go to www.nonnativespecies.org/legislation.

White - red flowers, usually bright purplish-pink, scented, 6-9 cm across, usually solitary

Leaves divided, shiny green on upper side, downy on lower side

Fruit round, red, 1.5-2.5 cm

Upright stems with many slender thorns


Similar Species

Distribution Japanese rose is scattered throughout low-land Britain, increasing in distribution.

Photos from: J. Bognar, Kata Tolgyesi, Max Wade


Graham, G.G. and Primavesi, A.L. (2005) “Roses of Great Britain and Ireland”. BSBI Hand-book No. 7, BSBI, London


Stace, C (1997) “New Flora of the British Isles”. Cambridge University Press

Japanese rose is easy to identify when it is flowering in June to July or has fruits in autumn. It is more difficult to identify in winter as it is deciduous, although its upright stems with numerous slender thorns will help to distinguish it from many other species throughout the year.

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There are some common native species of rose which could be confused with Japanese rose. These include: Burnet rose (Rosa pimpinellifolia/spinosissima), which has many fine thorns on its stem but white flowers and purple-black fruits and produces vigorous suckers; Dog-rose (Rosa canina), which has pale pink flowers, red oval fruits and curved thorns; a trailing plant of hedgerows and woodland; Sweet-briar (Rosa rubiginosa), which has bright pink flowers, red oval fruits and curved thorns and grows in scrub; and Field-rose (Rosa arvensis), which has white flowers, red oval fruits and curved thorns, and is a trailing plant of hedgerows and woodland. Japanese rose also forms hybrids with other species, which can make identification difficult.

Burnet Rose Native (Rosa pimpinellifolia)

White, sweetly scented flowers and purplish-black fruits

Many slightly curved slender thorns

Red fruits usually oval in shape not round Pale pink

flowers

Growing in hedgerows, rarely forming bushes

Dog-Rose Native (Rosa canina)

Dog-rose thorns small, sharp and curved

APPENDIX 4

FlowchartfortreatingJapaneseknotweed

ItisimportanttomakesurethatthesiteisnotcontaminatedbyfreshJapanese

knotweed,orthatpartsofthesitepreviouslyunaffectedbyJapaneseknotweeddo

notbecomecontaminated.Werecommendthat:

YES

YES

YES

Is there Japanese knotweed on site? NO

NO

NO

Can the site be treated in the long term (> 3 years)?

Does the infested soil area need to be disturbed?

can the site be treated in the medium-term

(more than 18 months)?

Is there enough appropriate space for a bund (see Section

5.5) for 18 months?

Can a root barrier membrane cell be safely buried at least 2m deep within

the site?

Can the infested soil be buried up to5m deep within the site?

HerbicideRefer to Sections:

• 2 to avoid Japanese knotweed spreading further

• 3 to plan how you will treat it

• 8 for managing in the long term Soil only suitable for reusing on site.

Bund methodRefer to Sections:

• 5 (particularly 5.5) for treatment and Appendix I for guidance on removing rhizomes

• 7 for moving soil


• 8 for managing it in the long term

Soil only suitable for reuse on site.

Burial methodRefer to Sections:

• 5 (particularly 5.4) for treatment and Appendix 1 for guidance on removing rhizomes



• 8 for managing it in the long-term. Do not use a persistent herbicide.

Root barrier membraneRefer to Sections:

• 4 for guidance on using root barrier membrane and Appendix 1 for guidance on removing rhizomes



• 8 for managing it in the longterm.

Do not use a persistent herbicide.

Combined treatmentRefer to Sections:

• 3.4, but also consider Section 4 and 5 options

• 8 for managing Japanese knotweed in the long term. Soil only suitable for reusing on site.

Refer to Sections:

• 2.3 on how to avoid contaminating the site again

• 8.5 if Japanese knotweed is growing near the site.

Herbicide/barrierRefer to Sections:

• 2 to avoid spreading further.

• 3 for treatment

• 4 for containing Japanese knotweed using root barrier membrane, if necessary

Off-site disposalRefer to Sections:

• 6 for guidance on disposal and Appendix I for guidance on removing rhizomes



• 8 for managing it in the long term. Do not use a persistent herbicide.

YES

YES

YES

NO

NO

NO

NO

YES

HowdoIpreventJapaneseknotweedspreading?

i) youhaveaJapaneseknotweedmanagement plan(seesection3.1);

ii) allstaffareawareofwhatJapaneseknotweed lookslikeandwhattheirresponsibilitiesare;

iii) youhaveaclerkofworksresponsibleforthe managementofJapaneseknotweed.

2.1 Avoiding contamination around the siteItisessentialthatyoufindouthowmuchJapaneseknotweedinfestationthereisonthesiteandthateveryoneworkingthereclearlyunderstandsthis.Youshouldbriefallcontractorsfully.YoushouldrecordanyareasthatarecontaminatedwithJapaneseknotweedintheJapaneseknotweedmanagementplan(AppendixVandVI),isolatethemwithfencingandputuparestrictedaccesssign(AppendixVII).Section7describestheprecautionsyouneedtotakewhenmovingsoilinfestedwithJapaneseknotweed.

2.2 Good site hygieneTomaintaingoodsitehygiene,wesuggest:

a) asageneralrule,theareaofinfestationis7m horizontallyfromthenearestgrowthof Japaneseknotweedthatcanbeseen.To determineexactlyhowfartherhizomeshave spread,youwouldneedtodigaseriesoftest pitsandexaminethemcarefully;

b) afencethatcanclearlybeseenshouldmarkout theareaofinfestation.Signsshouldwarn peopleworkingtherethatthereisJapanese knotweedcontamination(appendixVII);

c) youshouldindicatestockpilesofsoil contaminatedwithJapaneseknotweedwith appropriatesignsandisolatethem;

d) youshouldnotusevehicleswithcaterpillar trackswithintheinfestedarea;

e) vehiclesleavingtheareashouldeitherbe confinedtohaulageroutesprotectedbyroot barriermembranes,orbepressurewashed (seesection7.1);

f) vehiclesusedtotransportinfestedsoilsmust bethoroughlypressure-washedinadesignated wash-downareabeforebeingusedfor otherwork;

g) areasinfestedbyJapaneseknotweedthatare notgoingtobeexcavatedshouldbeprotected byrootbarriermembraneiftheyarelikelytobe disturbedbyvehicles(seesection4).Root barriermembraneswillneedtobeprotected fromdamagebyvehicleswithalayerofsand aboveandbelowtherootbarriermembrane, toppedwithalayerofhardcoreorothersuitable materialasspecifiedbyanarchitect orengineer(seesection7.1);

h) thematerialleftafterthevehicleshavebeen pressurewashedmustbecontained,collected anddisposedofalongwiththeotherJapanese knotweedmaterial;

i) aclerkofworksshouldoverseetheJapanese knotweedmanagementplan(appendixV), includingtheprovisionsforavoiding contamination.Everyoneworkingonsitemust clearlyunderstandtheroleandauthorityofthe clerkofworks.

12 Environment AgencyManagingJapaneseknotweedondevelopmentsites Environment AgencyManagingJapaneseknotweedondevelopmentsites13

APPLETONS REF:2082


Alternative Management Options for Japanese knotweed and Himalayan Balsam

MANAGEMENT OPTION 1 – THE BUND METHOD

Suitable for Japanese knotweed and Himalayan balsam

A bund is a shallow area of contaminated soil, typically 0.5m deep. The bund can either be raised, on top of the ground, or placed within an excavation to make the surface flush with the surrounding area. The purpose of the bund is to move the Japanese knotweed / Himalayan balsam and contaminated ground to an area of the site that is not used. The plants will grow and be controlled by herbicide. A bund needs the following:

An area within the perimeter of the site to be set aside for at least 18 months - 2 years for treatment, away from watercourses (over 50 m) and trees. Bunds should not measure over 1 m in depth, preferably no deeper than 0.5m and as such a large area may be needed to provide enough space for a bund.

Local planning authority approval, if necessary, before creating a bund.

A root barrier membrane layer should protect the underlying site, unless the site was previously contaminated with Japanese knotweed / Himalayan balsam.

MANAGEMENT OPTION 2 – THE BURIAL METHOD

Suitable for Japanese knotweed

When rhizomes are buried deep, they become dormant. Using this methodology, material should be buried at least 5m deep, then covered with a root barrier membrane layer before infilling it to 5m deep with inert fill or topsoil. Prior to burial, a non-persistent herbicide should be applied to reduce the growth of infective material. As Japanese knotweed is likely to remain dormant for many years (over 20 years in some cases), it is essential that it is not buried where landscaping, or subsequent development will disturb it. The Environment Agency should be notified prior to burial. It is only acceptable to bury Japanese knotweed material if the soil is otherwise uncontaminated. If burial is the preferred disposal method but it is not possible to bury Japanese knotweed at a depth of 5 m, it may be encapsulated into a root barrier membrane cell. These cells may be placed under ground that will not be disturbed. The upper ‘cell’ surface must be covered with a capping layer, at least 2m deep.

MANAGEMENT OPTION 3 – ROOT CUTTING / PULLING

Suitable for Himalayan balsam

Pulling up the plants and roots by hand can be undertaken in April or May. Pulled plants should be either be:

Draped over vegetation / structures preventing contact with the ground

Spread across controlled areas of hardstanding to allow to completely dry out, or;

Destroyed through crushing the roots and base of the pants. Pulling would have to be undertaken every year for three years and monitored for an extra two years to ensure no regrowth.

MANAGEMENT OPTION 4 – LONG-TERM HERBICIDE TREATMENT


It often takes at least three years of herbicide treatment before Japanese knotweed stops growing back. The lack of regrowth should not be taken as evidence that the Japanese knotweed is no longer alive and as such, soil must be checked for living rhizomes before any works within that area. There are four recognised herbicides licensed to be used on Japanese knotweed. The choice of herbicide is dependent upon:

Proximity to watercourse;

Ecological sensitivity of the surrounding vegetation; and,

The time lapse before soil is to be re-used or the area re-seeded.

Continues…

APPLETONS REF:2082


… Continued

Herbicide Affects grasses

Affects trees

Time of application Approved for use in or near water*

Persistence

Glyphosate Yes No (if used with care)

May – October (late season preferable)


Non-persistent

2,4-D Amine No No May – October (early season preferable)


Up to 1 month

Triclopyr No No May – October (early season preferable)

No Up to 6 weeks

Picloram No Yes All year (soil treatment in winter)

No Up to 2 years

*: Near water = within 5 m of standing water, running water, drainage channel or dry ditch.

MANAGEMENT OPTION 5 – DIGGING AND HERBICIDE


Combining digging and spraying treatment is effective in reducing the time needed for chemical control. The digging breaks up and brings the rhizome to the surface, which stimulates leaf production and therefore makes the plant more vulnerable to herbicide treatment. Soil can be dug during the winter, and regrowth can be treated during the spring and summer. Whilst this disturbance technique may have the potential to eradicate Japanese knotweed infestations, it cannot guarantee it. Soil can be reuse on-site in localised areas that would facilitate herbicide treatment if regrowth were to occur.

invasive species survey and method statement

Documents