The Tweed Foundation involves volunteers in Himalayan balsam pulling events across the catchment. Himalayan balsam is a large annual plant that thrives in damp soil along waterways. In some cases it can out compete native species, increase likelihood of flooding, expose river banks to erosion, and detract bees from native plants. Thankfully, it is an INNS that can be tackled by volunteers, as it is relatively easy to remove by hand.
If you would like to learn more about any balsam blitz events please complete our volunteer registration form to stay up-to-date.
The Tweed Foundation and the Berwick and District Angling Association (BDAA) are working together thanks to funding from Crown Estate Scotland. This project has allowed volunteers to start tackling Himalayan balsam plants along the Whiteadder Water. We are targeting Allanton Bridge, Hutton Bridge, and Bluestone ford.
There is also an active group in Kelso, working to remove Himalayan balsam along the Cobby.
If you see an invasive non-native species record it on INNS mapper, this helps coordinate programmes and efforts across the region.
You can read more about the Tweed Foundations biosecurity and other INNS species on our biosecurity page.
