QWAG and locals join forces to fight an alien invader.

Himalayan balsam was introduced into this country in 1839. Although an annual, it can grow to over seven feet. It soon escaped to riverbanks where, with no natural enemies, huge stands develop, native vegetation gets suppressed and exposed banks are eroded when it dies back.

QWAG’s river clean up, carried out in conjunction with Thames21, concentrated on the eradication of the plant from the Quaggy between Clarendon Rise and Manor Park. QWAG publicised the clean up to local householders. several of whom joined QWAG members and supporters on the exercise. QWAG intends to repeat the event regularly to control this stretch of the river.

Photos from the event