The objective of the LLFT is to identify, treat and eradicate riparian plant Invasive Non-Native Species (INNS) to improve our river and loch habitats. The Trust hopes to survey and map the treatment of INNS within the national park and along water courses draining into the national park.
In the UK, we have many non-native species which co-exist with our native species. Most of these species don’t have a negative effect such as the Chestnut tree and Japanese Maple tree. However, problems start to arise when these non-native species start to outcompete the native ones and become invasive. Impacting the growth and survival of native species can lead to the potential extinction of these species. In the Loch Lomond catchment this includes plant species such as Giant Hogweed, Japanese Knotweed, Himalayan Balsam and American Skunk Cabbage.
This work is supported by the Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park Authority (LLTNPA). The national parks core objective is like our own, to improve our river and loch habitats! Loch Lomond has many protected areas such as Special Area of Conservation (SAC), Special Site of Scientific Interest (SSSI) and the National Nature Reserve (NNR). In order to ensure these special areas are protected from INNS, yearly eradication of certain species is carried out.
The LLFT are focusing on eradicating Giant Hogweed, Japanese Knotweed and American Skunk Cabbage.
Plant INNS treatment by the Trust has reduced the spread of giant hogweed on the Endrick and Blane Water. This is important in preventing the plant spreading further downstream. This is also the same for American skunk cabbage and Japanese knotweed. The Trust has been involved in catchment scale eradication of Japanese knotweed on the Fruin Water and targeting some of the largest stands on the west side of loch Lomond. The majority of stands dominate small water courses, valuable spawning burns for trout and habitat for critically endangered European eel.
This work is only possible through the collaboration with landowners, Estates and other partners. As well as the dedicated work of staff members and volunteers. Together we can work towards the control and eradication of these INNS.
While tackling the problem of INNS can seem like a big task, there are some small changes you can make to help stop the spread of these species. When using the watercourses across the country it is important to consider what you may be taking with you when you leave. Equipment, clothing and even boats can carry seeds or material from INNS, spreading it to new sites. That is why the Non-Native Species Secretariat (NNSS) encourages everyone to CHECK, CLEAN and DRY.
For more information check out the NNSS website HERE.