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Rotten Meat Plant Cleared From River
12 Oct
Summary
- Invasive plant with a foul odor was removed from River Alderbourne.
- Over 2.5km of the river was treated for American skunk cabbage.
- Funding for the eradication project came from Affinity Water's INNS Out Scheme.
An invasive plant with an unpleasant odor, described as resembling "rotting meat," has been successfully cleared from a significant stretch of the River Alderbourne in Buckinghamshire. Environmental charity Groundwork South undertook the operation, treating more than 2.5 kilometers of the waterway. The invasive species targeted was the American skunk cabbage, which is not native to the area.
This vital work was made possible by a £9,900 grant from Affinity Water's INNS Out Scheme. The charity surveyed and treated several locations, including Harding's Row Nature Reserve. Post-treatment surveys have shown encouraging initial outcomes. Senior project manager Matt Mountain highlighted the crucial support from Affinity Water in tackling this relatively new invasive species before it became unmanageable, noting it as a significant victory for local wildlife and the sensitive chalk streams of the Colne catchment.
