Non-native invasive plant species are one of the greatest threats to the environment and biodiversity. They are often more vigorous than native species and lack natural pests and diseases to keep them in check. The smallest fragment, inadvertently spread, can cause an invasion. Aquatic invasive plants, in particular, out-compete native plants and can form dense mats choking up watercourses, increasing the risk of flooding, deoxygenating water and limiting access. Growth can be so dense that in some cases it can be mistaken for solid ground. Substantial amounts of money are spent annually managing non-native invasive species on waterways, ponds and lakes.
As part of the Investigate Invasives campaign, ERCCIS are running POND CHECK , This is a FREE service to help pond owners identify potential problem plants and provide advice on how to remove and carefully dispose of them. These are six of the worse aquatic offenders to look out for in your pond. They cause extensive damage if allowed to escape into the countryside.
Obtaining your FREE pond check couldn't be easier, simply either text or email a clear image of your pond and if possible a close up of the plants that you are concerned about together with your name and postcode . Alternatively, fill in the online recording form if you wish to provide a more detailed description to contribute to our records or download a recording form to survey a local community pond.
Contact Options
email pondcheck@cornwallwildlifetrust.org.uk or Text POND to 60300 followed by your name, postcode and image (messages will be charged at your standard network rate)
Online Recording Form
Download Recording Form to take into the field and return it to Lisa at ERCCIS, Five Acres, Allet, Truro, Cornwall, TR4 9DJ.
Helping protect wildlife from invasive species
