The Others – Invasive Plants Seminar

Wednesday 25^th May 2016
MOSI, Manchester
10.00am until 3.00pm

For the last ten years or so, Japanese Knotweed Solutions have held a seminar where we get the most informed members of the non-native species ‘world’ to get us up to speed on all things ‘invasive.

Previous years have seen us mainly focus on Japanese Knotweed – looking at changes in legislation and the Governments bio-control strategies as managed by CABI. This year, however, we are broadening our horizons and will be looking at …The Other’s….. (as in the ‘other’ problem species)

We have Trevor Renals (Senior Technical Advisor on Invasive Species at the Environment Agency) talking about what other problems the Environment Agency have on their ever expanding list of invading species. Trevor will be touching on the complexities surrounding budgets and priorities within the EA and what we can expect from future management strategies.

We also have Olaf Booy from The Non Native Species Secretariat, who are responsible for helping to coordinate the approach to invasive non-native species in Great Britain. Olaf will be talking about what problems they see on the horizon and how best we can prepare for and manage any new problems that arrive on our shores. He will also be talking about stopping these type of species BEFORE they become a problem and how legislation will enable this to happen.

Dick Shaw will be joining us from CABI (Centre for Agriculture and Biosciences International) to give updates on the Governments current bio-control strategy for Japanese knotweed as well as hinting at future plans for an additional bio attack on JK. Hopefully, Dick will also give us the lowdown on how the Himalayan balsam rust is coping with our British climate and whether we will be seeing any die back of balsam this season – fingers crossed for a good result!

Speaking in the ‘defence’ of plants will be Mr. Chris Baines – author and TV personality – a lover of plants and all things ‘wild’ in the garden. Whilst we in the ‘control industry’ give plants a bad name, Chris, will be looking at why these invasive plants have thrived and what we should be doing within our garden to encourage the ‘right’ plants to fight back.

As usual, we will be trying to bring some theatre to the proceedings with a Hollywood themed entrance and red carpet treatment for all guests. Be prepared for shock, horror and a little bit of awe…anybody who is of a nervous disposition should perhaps think twice about coming along.

Due to content – an OVER 18 certificate has been issued – may be some NUDITY – and occasional OFFENSIVE LANGUAGE (… if the PowerPoint doesn’t work…)

Mike Clough will be introducing the speakers as well as opening the day by launching the latest marketing campaign from JKSL on an unsuspecting public.

Lunch will be provided, as well some surprise entertainment – which went down such a storm at last year’s event!

To get your ticket for Wednesday 25^th May, please download the booking form here and return to [email protected]