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Let’s pull together to tackle Himalayan balsam

This news article was published more than a year ago. Some of the information may no longer be accurate.

Published: 23/04/2014


The Big Pull is a community conservation project which aims to tackle the rapid spread of Himalayan balsam along our river banks and open spaces. South Gloucestershire Council’s Wild4Life project and the Avon Invasive Weeds project work together to organise events each summer and we would love to hear from any individuals, community groups or organisations that are interested in getting involved. Please get in touch with us via the contact details below for more information.

The annual Big Pull campaign begins on Saturday 31 May, ahead of Volunteers’ Week (1 to 7 June). There are a number of free Big Pull mornings taking place along the River Frome in Yate where you can learn how to identify, pull up and dispose of this invasive plant. These Big Pull mornings are open to the public and take place between 10am and 1pm on Saturday 31 May, Saturday 7 June, Saturday 28 June and Saturday 12 July. Anyone wishing to take part should meet at 10am at the far end of Celestine Road, Yate BS37 5HB. Gloves and equipment will be provided.

Rowena Kenny, South Gloucestershire Council’s Wild4Life Project Officer, said: “This year we will be running Big Pull mornings along the River Frome walkway near Yate to stop the plant’s spread upstream. Let’s pull together! Show your support for conservation by volunteering for a few hours to help make a difference.

“There are lots of Big Pull work days happening across South Gloucestershire and the South West and we would be happy to link you to a Big Pull near you. All ages are welcome and equipment and gloves are provided. Big Pull days can also be specially arranged for community or youth groups and for business team building days, so please get in contact.”

The Big Pull is a partnership project involving community groups and volunteers with support from South Gloucestershire Council’s Wild4Life project and the Avon Invasive Weeds project. Last year 106 local volunteers got involved along with conservation workers and A level, NVQ and degree students who joined in as part of their education and research. Between them a total of 675 metres along the River Frome were cleared.

Contact us by calling 01454 863556, emailing community.spaces@southglos.gov.uk or alternatively visit www.southglos.gov.uk/thebigpull or www.aiwf.org.uk for more information.


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