Today's task was Himalayan Balsam
removal along Wreaks Beck as part of the Laver Balsam control scheme. A
team of 13 Balsam eradicators assembled at Fir Tree Farm, including Eric
(the farmer).
You
may be forgiven for believing that pulling Balsam is an easy task – indeed the
pulling is not demanding, however the slope was steep and wet and the insects were
relentless. A beck runs along the bottom of the site and it was not always easy to stay out
of the water (as Dean experienced).
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| The intrepid NCVs make their way across the natural water feature in order to reach the Balsam |
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| Dean and Jan scrutinise the area to make sure that no Balsam remains |
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| A lone NCV battles valiantly into the distance not realising that the Balsam is springing up behind him as he goes |
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| Dean barrows away yet another load of the deceased weed. |
During
the winter we had planted approx 800 trees at the farm and Eric took us to
inspect the saplings. Every one had taken! He also brought a cool-bag with
refreshments, much appreciated!
Jan
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| The trees planted in the winter are still standing |
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