A REDDITCH resident has raised the alarm over an invasive weed which is taking over the River Arrow.
The call, from Sue Binns, coincides with a borough council rallying cry for residents to join the battle.
Sue Binns, who regularly fishes the river, said it is ‘under siege’ from Himalayan Balsam with thousands of the plants, growing up to 6ft high, spreading throughout the area.
“There are hundreds and hundreds of separate sites throughout the area that are being choked by this weed, which eventually will affect the wild life,” said the Woodrow resident.
“This time of year if you touch the pods they will explode.”
The council has admitted the weeds have become a major problem on the waterway and the issue is now so serious that combating the weed has been included in their management plan.
Now they are asking residents to join the battle as part of a clean up group to rid the area of the plant on an annual basis.
Ray Cook, who manages the plan, said: “We are currently building up our volunteer groups within the park and will be asking volunteers to help us control the balsam each year, around April / May time.
“Next year it looks like we will have a bigger battle on our hands so we will be looking for more people and local businesses willing to give up their time and wage war on the weeds.”
A web page has been set up for people, groups and businesses to register their interest.
Councillor Pat Witherspoon, whose portfolio covers leisure services, said: “I urge our residents and businesses to give up some spare time in the spring to help us keep our watercourses clear. Together we can win the war on this weed.”
To volunteer email [email protected] Or register interest at http://bit.ly/2dMbQ1x .
