Pictures: Nore Vision offers help to anyone ready to tackle balsam in Kilkenny

Nore Vision is encouraging Kilkenny community groups to avail of their assistance to help tackle invasive plant species along the river.

Himalyan Balsam was initially introduced to gardens as an ornamental plant and at some stage escaped into the wild and became widely established along rivers and streams.

It has become a problem in many parts of the country as is covers large areas of river bank and puts pressure on native plants. It also offers no bank stabilisation as it has a shallow root system thus exposing it to erosion. In recent times, people have become more aware of losing native species and the role invasives are playing in that. Nore Vision is working throughout the catchment to manage this invasive.

The plants are harmless to humans and can be easily pulled out. Once the root is exposed, the plant will soon die. However, this must be done before the seeds appear around July.

Nore Vision will assist landowners through training and linking with community volunteers who can help landowners remove plants.

Minister of State Malcolm Noonan is well used to pulling balsam, and has volunteered with Keep Kilkenny Beautiful for many years. On Friday, he visited Kells to help the community there to manage the balsam on the Kings River. June is the best time to pull Himalyan Balsam but Nore Vision advise people to be careful around rivers and to be mindful of nesting birds.

“Managing Himalyan Balsam needs a joint effort from agencies, communities and landowners throughout the catchment. We will train, support and co-ordinate communities and landowners ,”said Mags Morrissey, project leader with Nore Vision.

Community groups and individuals are encouraged to contact invasives@norevision.ie for support and training.