Invasive and non-native weeds
Non-native plants are those that have been brought in to the country. A small number of these can cause damage to the environment and our health. These are called invasive and non-native weeds.
For comprehensive advice on how to deal with invasive non-native weeds visit: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/prevent-the-spread-of-harmful-invasive-and-non-native-plants
Invasive non-native weed control
It is the responsibility of individual landowners to deal with invasive non-native weeds, such as Giant Hogweed and Japanese Knotweed.
Contact the responsible landowner or occupier and ask them to prevent any weeds that are spreading on to your land and that are controlled by law.
If we find an invasive non-native weed on our land we will arrange for it to be removed by appropriately qualified weed removal contractors.
Identifying invasive non-native weeds
For helpful identification guides, with detailed seasonal photographs, see the Non-Native Species Secretariat website: https://www.nonnativespecies.org/
Giant Hogweed
It has a similar appearance to cow parsley with long, green stems which branch out into clusters of small, white flowers. It can grow to over three metres and can be identified by its purple-hued stem and leaf stalks covered in spots.
Japanese Knotweed
The different seasons bring out different characteristics of the plant with red or purple shoots appearing from the ground at the start of spring. They then grow rapidly into canes and grow leaves.
Reporting invasive non-native weeds
You can use the iRecord website to report any non-native species found: https://irecord.org.uk/enter-non-native-records
The Non-Native Species Secretariat website also has further information: https://www.nonnativespecies.org/what-can-i-do/recording/
To report any possible sightings on roads, highways or road verges please contact Gloucestershire County Council: https://www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/highways/contact-us/
The Wye Valley AONB rely on anglers, walkers and owners to keep them informed of any new invasive plants. For more information and to report any findings in the AONB see: https://www.wyevalleyaonb.org.uk/the-river-wye/plants/
If on Forestry England land please contact the local office: https://www.forestryengland.uk/our-offices
If you are concerned about any possible invasive non-native weeds on Forest of Dean District Council land please complete this form and ensure you give as much detail about the location as possible. If we find an invasive non-native weed on our land we will arrange for it to be removed by appropriately qualified weed removal contractors.