Seminar: Biological Control of Japanese Knotweed
Thursday 25th March, Manchester
JKSL are holding a seminar regarding the imminent release of the non-native, bio-control agent for the control of Japanese Knotweed, Aphalara itadori. (Psyllid jumping louse).
As I am sure you are aware, Japanese Knotweed is one of the most damaging invasive species to have arrived in the UK. It was introduced from Asia to Europe in the early nineteenth century as an ornamental and fodder plant. In its native Japan, the plant presents little problem due to natural controls that have evolved to co-exist alongside the plant, providing a natural brake to its continued spread. However, in Britain it has no natural control and is now recognised as the country’s most invasive species. Its vigorous growth can causes damage to buildings, paving’s, hard surfaces, rivers and railways. It is also massively damaging to our native biodiversity growing to the preclusion of all of our British plants.
The cost to the UK economy is great. In 2003 the Government put the cost of control at over £1.5 billion. The control methods typically used rely on chemicals that have been deemed unsustainable and unsuitable for a national eradication programme – a longer term solution has been required.
In 2001 a consortium of partners were brought together to examine the potential for the biological control of Japanese Knotweed. Works have been carried out by CABI, a not for profit organisation, who during the six year project have demonstrated that a sap sucking psyllid, Aphalara itadori, is highly specific to Japanese Knotweed and shows a good potential for its control in Great Britain.
Following Public Consultation, it is highly likely that the Aphid will be released in the UK in April 2010. Once it has been released, the Aphid will soon spread throughout the UK, predating on Japanese Knotweed as it spreads.
JKSL are proposing a seminar to discuss likely ramifications for land owners, environmentalists and developers following the release. Additional topics covered will include the legislation updates and Land Remediation Tax Relief.
To book your place, please email jk@sltd.co.uk or phone 0161 723 2000.
PLEASE NOTE PLACES ARE BEING BOOKED ON A FIRST COME, FIRST SERVED BASIS.
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