The Capital Region Invasive Species Partnership (CRISP) is conducting a regional knotweed control program to eradicate invasive knotweeds from the Capital Region, before they take hold. The program has run successfully for the past two summers and aims to treat all knotweed reports in the region. A service of professionally conducted, free stem injection treatment is available from now until early fall and is funded by the Ministry of Forest, Lands and Natural Resource Operations, and Local Governments within the Capital Region.
“In neighbouring regions it is already too late” warns Becky Brown, Invasive Plant Specialist, with the BC government, “These plants are capable of growing through four feet of concrete and can reproduce from a fragment no larger than the size of your small finger nail."
Considered one of the world’s worst plant invaders, bamboo-like, highly aggressive knotweeds are large, hollow stemmed shrubs that form large stands and destroy fish and wildlife habitat. Knotweed is now in our region. Knotweed roots can penetrate pavement and damage infrastructure such as roads, foundations, walls, drainage and septic systems. In Britain, knotweed grows rampantly causing severe financial implications, including mortgage refusal on properties with knotweed.
Knotweed occurrences in the Capital Region currently are sporadic, and with the help of the public, eradication may still be possible.
CRISP seeks the assistance of the public to report all outbreaks of knotweed. If you suspect you have knotweed on your property, or notice it in other locations (public or private), please report to the Coastal Invasive Species Committee (email info@coastalisc.com or call 250-857-2472). Do NOT dig or compost any portion of the plant, as even fragments can re-grow. Cutting, mowing, and pulling stimulate shoot growth and may cause roots to spread further resulting in new infestations up to 20 metres away.
"Knotweed is a bully in the plant world. It's an invasive and aggressive plant that spreads easily and can impact property values, the environment and cause safety issues on roadways. Look for www.knotonmyproperty.com to learn more ways to defend your property from invasion”, explains Rachelle McElroy, Executive Director of the Coastal Invasive Species Committee.
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For further information:
Coastal Invasive Species Committee/ Capital Region Invasive Species Partnership (CRISP)
info@coastalisc.com or 250-857-2472.
Fact sheet found at: http://www.coastalisc.com/images/stories/Documents/CRISP_knotweed_alert_...
Media questions and photo opportunities, please contact:
Rachelle McElroy, Executive Director, Coastal Invasive Species Committee.
Email: rachelle@coastalisc.com
Phone: 250-857-2472.
