Foot and Mouth …and Psyllid Aphids…!
I’m beginning to think that the best part of the Blog is coming up with new headlines to grab your attention…
However it does make a serious point.
Before setting up Japanese Knotweed Solutions I ran a landscape maintenance company which dealt with a series of sites throughout the North West of England.
The company was reasonably successful and had an enviable client list including Peel Investments, the Manchester Ship Canal Company, British Airways and several of the larger superstore chains.
When the Foot and Mouth epidemic hit the country - the Government took quick decisive action and resolved the situation – despite the problems caused to a whole range of companies.
Countryside access was simply stopped – not allowed…
The grounds maintenance section of the company that I ran… simply stopped work! You weren’t allowed on site….therefore no works could be carried out, nothing could be invoiced – big problems- no money!!!
The point I’m getting at here - is that IF the Government could be as decisive with Foot and Mouth..WHY OH WHY…..can’t they get a bit more decisive with Japanese Knotweed (and other non native species)….!!
Instead of introducing an Aphid…. which MIGHT or MIGHT NOT reduce the Japanese Knotweed problem – and MIGHT or MIGHT NOT introduce a WHOLE SET OF OTHER PROBLEMS..
WHY NOT – SIMPLY – change the legislation relating to Japanese Knotweed.
Why not make it a legal requirement FOR LANDOWNERS to do something about it….
Surely that’s simpler and LESS RISKY than introducing another ALIEN SPECIES WITH NO NATURAL ENEMIES?? (The last Alien species we introduced with ‘no natural enemies’ – was Japanese Knotweed…)
Followers of this Blog will note – I am supportive of the Governments initiative for JK control using the Psyllid Aphid – it’s going to happen… so let’s get on board with the strategy…however… I do still question whether it is the best answer.
Mike C
