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Effective Control of

Japanese knotweed and

other Introduced Invasive

Terrestrial Plants in

Europe – Integration of

Research and Practice

March 2007

Conference Proceedings

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Contents Page Introduction 4

Cornwall Knotweed Forum 4 Venue 4

Conference team 6 Acknowledgements 6 Reviewing panel 6 Programme agenda 7 Presentation summaries 9 Poster summaries 19 Field trip excursion 20 Speaker Profiles 21 Registered conference participants 23 Trade stand exhibitors 24

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Introduction

Invasive plant species are increasingly recognised as a threat to biodiversity and natural ecosystems. Japanese Knotweed in particular is a serious economic concern on development sites and in co-ordinated waste management. If not managed, this vigorous species can have seriously damaging effects on the built environment. Established in 1997, the Cornwall Knotweed Forum focused their efforts on developing effective control strategies for invasive species by co-ordinating research on physiology and treatment methods. As a consequence, the Forum is now considered by many, to be at the forefront of Japanese knotweed management and invasive species issues in the UK. This second conference, celebrating the10th anniversary of the Cornwall Knotweed Forum, aimed to provide a platform to highlight key research into the control of invasive plants and share best practice across Europe. It offered researchers and practitioners the opportunity to discuss the latest knowledge on physiology and effective control strategies for Japanese knotweed and other invasive terrestrial plants and to identify future research priorities. In addition to formal papers and posters, the conference provided opportunities to view demonstration sites and discuss practical equipment, applications and future challenges. Trade Stands enabled contractors and consultants to promote their latest innovations and methodologies in the control and management of invasive plants. Cornwall Knotweed Forum Cornwall Knotweed Forum is a partnership with representatives from a wide range of organisations including Universities, Local Authorities, Statutory Agencies, Non Government Organisations (NGOs), industry, landowners and individuals. It is dedicated to promoting a co-ordinated holistic approach to control and management of Japanese knotweed and other introduced invasive plants. The Forum has enjoyed considerable success in developing best practice for strategic control and eradication. It has implemented a GIS survey recording system in conjunction with the Botanical Society of the British Isles, produced publications and guidance notes and has promoted important scientific research projects and targeted areas for future study. Venue

The conference celebrating the 10th Anniversary of the Cornwall Knotweed Forum was held on the beautiful south coast of Cornwall at The University of Exeter, Tremough Campus near Falmouth. Set in 70 acres of countryside, but close to the historical waterside towns of Penryn and Falmouth, the campus is used and managed jointly by two higher education institutions – University College Falmouth and the University of Exeter in

Cornwall. Tremough is the hub of the Combined Universities in Cornwall project, which is leading the economic regeneration of the county providing an ideal location for this prestigious event. The second day included field trips across the county to the north coast, followed by lunch and demonstrations at Duchy College, Rosewarne Campus - Cornwall's College of the Countryside.

Figure 1University of Exeter Tremough Campus

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Duchy College prides itself on being one of the leading land based colleges in the country. The Rosewarne Campus, a former Ministry of Agriculture horticultural experimental station, provides an excellent horticultural resource and is home to national plant collections. The research team at Duchy work closely with the Forum and are currently carrying out investigations on Fallopia species and Carpobrotus edulis to further our knowledge on these invasive plant species.

Figure 2 Duchy College, Rosewarne

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Conference Team C Hawke, Cornwall County Council Dr L Jenkin, Cornwall County Council J Macfarlane, Cornwall County Council Dr B Mulholland, Duchy College, Rosewarne, Camborne L Rennocks, Duchy College, Rosewarne, Camborne Acknowledgements Conference team Prof. R Pine, Camborne School of Mines J Taylor, Business Development Officer, University of Exeter in Cornwall. Business Services, University of Exeter in Cornwall, Penryn, UK, TR10 9EZ Commercial Services Team, University of Exeter in Cornwall, Penryn, UK, TR10 9EZ Conference organisers, Cornwall County Council Reviewing Editors C Hawke, Cornwall County Council Dr L Jenkin J Macfarlane, Cornwall County Council Dr B Mulholland, Duchy College Rosewarne

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Programme

Day 1: Wednesday 21st March 2007, University of Exeter, Cornwall Campus, Penryn, Cornwall, UK, TR10 9EZ 9.00- 9.50am Registration 9.50am Official welcome. Prof. Bob Pine, Camborne School of Mines & Jean Taylor, Business Development Officer, University of Exeter in Cornwall. 10.00am Session 1: The development of control strategies Keynote speaker: Dr Lois Child, University of Loughborough. Co-author of the Japanese Knotweed Control Manual 10 years of invasive plant control: What have we learnt and which areas need further research? Colin Hawke, Cornwall County Council Natural Environment Service. Cornwall Knotweed Forum Cornwall Knotweed Forum: Strategic development of effective control strategies within Cornwall. Simon Ford, National Trust, The landowner approach to controlling invasives, on large estates. 11am: Coffee Break, posters and trade stands 11.30am Session 2: Know your enemy: Physiology and general plant responses James Macfarlane, Cornwall County Council Vegetation Adviser and University of Exeter Observations on environmental effects on growth and viability of Japanese Knotweed and other invasives. Dr Richard Shaw, CABI The Biological Control approach Dr Barry Mulholland1, Lisa Rennocks1, James Macfarlane2 and Dr Loveday Jenkin2 1Duchy College, Rosewarne, 2Cornwall County Council. Stressing Knotweed 12.30pm: Lunch, posters and trade stands 2pm Session 3: Defining problems and management issues Dr Barbara Tokarska-Guzik, University of Silesia, Poland Alien Plant Species Management in Poland: a case study on Fallopia control. Dr Loveday E.T. Jenkin, University of Exeter and Cornwall County Council Experimental trials on Japanese Knotweed in Cornwall: control and management implications Lisa Rennocks1, Dr Barry Mulholland1, James Macfarlane2 and Dr Loveday Jenkin2

1Duchy College, Rosewarne, 2Cornwall County Council. Strategies for Knotweed Management 3pm Coffee Break, posters and trade stands

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3.30pm Session 4: Effective site specific solutions Mr Nick Tocher tcm(r&d) Innovative methods of Knotweed eradication and Methods of Viability testing Mr Phillip Burgess and Dr Ron P Crockett, Clark County Weed Management JKinjection® Systems and Roundup® Herbicides Ian Thompson, Nomix and Dow Chemicals Results of experimental treatments Bob Robinson, National Trust Strategic Control programmes in West Penwith Ian Graham and Richard Minton, Complete Weed Control Limited A contractor’s perspective 5.00pm Session 5: The future Challenges for the Future – to include the current consultation on the draft GB Invasive Non-native Species Framework Strategy. Discussion panel on future UK and EU policy Discussion and conclusions 5.30pm close of formal session 7.30pm: Conference Dinner, Greenlawns Hotel, Falmouth Excursions Day 2: Thursday 22nd March 2007: Field trip and Duchy College, Rosewarne, Camborne, Cornwall, UK, TR14 0AB Putting research into practice Morning: Field trip to identify good practice for control of invasive plants: 9.15am: Depart from Conference Hotel, Falmouth 9.30am: Depart from Tremough Campus, Penryn Visiting sites demonstrating: Treatment near water – Argal Reservoir Roadsides - Rame Whole catchments – Red River Catchment Public open space, Development and brownfield sites – Tuckingmill Valley Park, Camborne Pool Redruth Urban Regeneration Area Sensitive areas – Tehidy Country Park Lunch at Duchy College, Rosewarne, Camborne Afternoon: Practical demonstrations of effective techniques and equipment Duchy College, Camborne 5.30pm: Return to Penryn and Falmouth

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Presentation Summaries Key Note Speaker

10 years of invasive plant control: What have we learnt and which areas need further research?

Lois Child, Centre for Environmental Studies, Loughborough University, Loughborough, LE11 3TU, UK E-mail: L.E.Child@lboro.ac.uk Over the last 10 years, research on Fallopia japonica has been focused in three main areas: distribution; reproduction and regeneration; and control. It is important that this research links into and informs practical management. Advances in technology have allowed the fine scale distribution of the species to be more accurately mapped and have played a part in developing control strategies and providing a base-line for monitoring future control programmes. An increased understanding of the reproductive biology of F. japonica and its congeners has highlighted the potential for genetic mobility in this group of species. The search for more effective control techniques continues to progress with the investigation of control by natural enemies. For herbicide control techniques there is the potential to maximise treatment success with the aid of supporting research on resource partitioning. A practical application of research to date is the inclusion of much new information in the Environment Agency’s Code of Practice. However, there is much still to do. Long term, robust studies of conventional control methods are lacking, viability of rhizome material in the long term and in varying environmental conditions is still unknown and the full impact of F. japonica on soils, flora and fauna has yet to be established. Link to PowerPoint 1 (Lois Child)

Cornwall Knotweed Forum: strategic development of effective control strategies within Cornwall

Colin Hawke, Cornwall County Council Natural Environment Service. Cornwall Knotweed Forum

The Cornwall Knotweed Forum was formed in 1997 and brought together a number of individuals and organisations to tackle the perceived problems of the invasive plant, Japanese knotweed, in Cornwall. At an inaugural meeting a range of issues was discussed and it was clear that no one body had ownership or responsibility for dealing with the issue. There was overwhelming support for a partnership approach. Further meetings were held to bring together all those with an interest in the issue and to agree a strategy. Key issues that needed to be addressed were: How big is the problem? How do we get widespread support for action? How do we deal with it effectively? and How do we fund work? In order to get a feel for the scale of the problem we looked at the existing records and then built upon this with requests for information from within the Forum, local Parish Councils and from members of the public. This also helped to raise awareness of the problem. We now have an interactive mapping system to view existing records and to report new sites

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(www.cornwallknotweed.org.uk). Press releases, TV and radio interviews and leaflets helped to raise awareness of the problems and issues. It was clear from an early stage that little specific research had been undertaken to inform treatment regimes. As a result a number of trials and research projects were instigated with the limited funds available. Funding for the work of the Forum has come from existing budgets of Forum members with some grant funding for specific areas of work. However there is no core funding for the Forum’s work. With limited resources early control work was opportunistic but it soon became clear that it would be more effective to prioritise control work and a strategy emerged. Priority sites for control are: Those at greatest risk of spread – roadsides, riparian sites etc; Those on or near ecologically sensitive sites – National Nature Reserves, Sites of Special Scientific Interest etc; Those at greatest risk of disturbance – development, construction sites etc. More recently the Forum has turned its attention to other non native invasive plants, especially Impatiens glandulifera (Himalayan balsam), and Heracleum mantegazzianum (giant hogweed). Link to PowerPoint 2 (Colin Hawke)

The Landowners Approach to Controlling Invasives on Large Estates

Simon Ford: Regional Nature Conservation Advisor for the National Trust in Wessex. The National Trust owns over 280,000 hectares of land across England, Wales and Northern Ireland. These properties range from large estates and gardens to extensive tracts of mountain, down and coast line. Almost 40% of the land is of national or international importance for wildlife. Invasive species are recognised as potentially the biggest threat to biodiversity worldwide after habitat destruction. They can also have a significant detrimental impact on the economic value and social well being of a property. The nature of many National Trust properties makes them particularly prone to invasive species. Gardens and country estates imported vast numbers of non-native plants which in some cases such as Rhododendron ponticum, Japanese knotweed, Himalayan balsam and Crassula helmsii spread rapidly in to the wider countryside. In a number of circumstances, climate change appears to be exacerbating the spread of invasive species to the detriment of our native fauna and flora. Species which were not known to pose a threat are now increasing rapidly. Invasive species management is one of the National Trust’s biggest challenges. From our own work and from working in partnership with others, we are now able to manage many invasive species, but others (particularly aquatic invasives), pose much greater problems.

Link to PowerPoint 3 (Simon Ford)

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Observations on environmental effects on growth and viability of Japanese knotweed and other invasives. James Macfarlane, Cornwall County Council Vegetation Adviser and University of Exeter This presentation will focus on observations made on more than 3700 sites of Japanese knotweed which are recorded on the database held by the County Council. Particular emphasis will be placed on the variety of situations in which the plant has been recorded. This work has lead on to further research in relation to transport in saline conditions, aspects of regeneration, rate of growth, reaction to sub lethal herbicide application and dormancy. With Cornwall’s location at the southernmost part of the British Isles, certain other species, particularly of a Mediterranean origin are already becoming problematic in this area. Brief mention will also be made of these species which may which may have greater effect elsewhere due course due to climate change. Link to PowerPoint 4 (James Macfarlane)

The Biological Control approach

Dr Richard Shaw, CABI All invasive alien species have one thing in common irrespective of taxa: they have lost their usual suite of natural enemies. The use of these natural enemies in classical biological control has been going on for over a century worldwide but has never occurred in Europe. Japanese knotweed could be the first such target and this presentation will report the progress of the on-going CABI project as well as consider other suitable targets such as Himalayan balsam. The conclusion is drawn that classical biological control is the only weapon against many invasive alien plant species and its use will become more frequent as Europe gains experience in this tried and tested strategy. No PowerPoint available

Stressing Knotweed

Barry Mulholland1, Lisa Rennocks1, James MacFarlane2 and Loveday Jenkin2 1Duchy College, Rosewarne, Camborne, Cornwall, TR14 0AB; 2Cornwall County Council, Truro, Cornwall, TR1 3AY. The aggressive invasive nature of Knotweed has been well documented and has become a particularly invasive problem in Cornwall. Japanese knotweed can tolerate harsh environments, can grow on soils that are contaminated with heavy metals and is an effective coloniser of favourable and marginal sites. Chemical control can be effective but is not always a practical solution for all situations and we have been exploring sustainable approaches to eradication. For this to be an effective solution then the functional traits of Japanese knotweed under both standard and stressed conditions need to be characterised. This paper will present the findings of the impact of fast growing rhizomatous grasses as natural growth competitors and salinity on the physiological and growth responses of Knotweed. Link to PowerPoint 5 (Barry Mulholland)

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Alien Plant Species Management in Poland: a case study on Fallopia control. Dr Barbara Tokarska-Guzik, University of Silesia, Poland The main idea behind the project presented is to assess the effects of control of Fallopia populations on a protected area (the Area of Protected Landscape and a Natura 2000 site "the border river Oder meanders"). The 8-kilometre long border section of the Oder River, situated between the Czech Republic and Poland, preserved in it is natural state, represents a unique fragment of dynamic river. The processes shaping this border section of the Oder River have created extremely rich mosaics and microhabitats, providing refuge to many rare and endangered plant and animal species. In some sections of the river bank, the spontaneous succession of plant communities is hampered by the invasion of plants of alien origin (chiefly: knotweeds, Fallopia japonica and F x bohemica). actions taken by the World Wildlife Fund (WWF Poland) together with the University of Silesia led to the preserving the unique features of the meandering Oder river course. Link to PowerPoint presentation 6 (B Tokarska-Guzik)

Experimental trials on Japanese Knotweed in Cornwall: control and management implications

Dr Loveday E.T. Jenkin, University of Exeter and Cornwall County Council, Truro, Cornwall When the Cornwall Knotweed Forum was created 10 years ago, there was little understanding of the physiology of Japanese Knotweed and therefore of the best practice for its control and management. The Cornwall Knotweed Forum and individual partners therefore decided to initiate a number of experimental trials to test some of the hypotheses that were current in order to build up a strategic body of knowledge. Previous work by the National Trust had highlighted the cut and drench application method and use by the Environment Agency had suggested that glyphosate based products could be effective on sites near water. The first experimental trials on the White River near St Austell were designed to test method of application, dose for cut and drench and time of year for spraying. These indicated that autumn spraying appeared to be the most effective and that cut and drench could be almost as effective as foliar spray when applied at the right dose. Further experiments on a number of National Trust sites were designed to test the cut and drench method with a number of different chemicals on sensitive sites. These trials showed that a glyphosate formulation was the most effective chemical to use with this method of application although there were also indications that a picloram formulation might be suitable on less sensitive sites away from water. The advantage of cut and drench was that ground flora was less affected than when foliar spray was used. Other trials have tested the effect of disturbance on regeneration; the number of treatments required for good above ground control; the effect of time of year on effectiveness of treatment. The results of these trials will be reported and conclusions drawn. Link to PowerPoint presentation 7 (L Jenkin)

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Strategies For Knotweed Management

Lisa Rennocks1, Barry Mulholland1, James MacFarlane2 and Loveday Jenkin2 1Duchy College, Rosewarne, Camborne, Cornwall, TR14 0AB 2Cornwall County Council, Truro, Cornwall, TR1 3AY. Japanese knotweed has a rhizomatous perennial growth habit. Since its introduction in the 1800s it has become invasive within the UK and has aggressively displaced native flora (CCC, 2003; University of Exeter, 2003; Japanese Knotweed Alliance, 2005). This has been exacerbated by recent extreme weather events (e.g. Boscastle) where newly exposed river corridor areas have been rapidly colonised by Japanese knotweed. Site clearance is also a major issue for building developers as there are concerns that knotweed growth can undermine the structural integrity of new developments. This has important implications and in particular for Cornwall and the building of new homes on marginal or derelict sites which may well be contaminated with knotweed. The economic and biodiversity impacts of knotweed growth therefore make it an important and timely area of study for Cornwall as a region but also at a national level. This paper will discuss approaches for effective knotweed management. Link to PowerPoint 8 (Lisa Rennocks)

Innovative methods of Knotweed eradication and Methods of Viability testing Mr Nick Tocher tcm(r&d) Link to PowerPoint 9 (Nick Tocher)

JKinjection® Systems and Roundup® Herbicides.

Mr P Burgess and Dr. Ron P. Crockett,Clarke County Weed management. Monsanto Co., St. Louis, MO 63167. Abstract: The active ingredient in various Roundup herbicide formulations, glyphosate, has been shown to be active on a number of deep-rooted perennial grasses and herbaceous weeds. These glyphosate formulations have been manufactured and sold commercially under various names since 1974. Roundup is used to control a wide range of weed types and sizes from small to large and includes both annual and perennial weeds. Roundup products have been especially effective on many of the tougher perennial weeds that had been difficult to control prior to its introduction. These weeds include many of the most invasive perennial weeds growing in wildlands and wetlands. In 2004, the Jkinjectiontool® was developed for individual stem injection principles using Roundup. One of the first weed targets treated was Japanese knotweed. Further research has shown that the JKinjection tool is effective on many hollow-stem and pithy-stemmed weeds. Aside from knotweed, the Jkinjectiontool has been successfully used to control giant knotweed (Polygonum sachalinense), Bohemian knotweed (Polygonum bohemicum), and Himalayan knotweed ( Polygonum polystachyum), giant cane (Arundo donax), Canada thistle (Cirsium arvense), field horsetail (Equisetum arvense), poison hemlock (Conium maculatum L.), giant hogweed (Heracleum mantegazzianum), castor bean (Ricinus communis), and yellow flag iris( Iris pseudocorus). The JKinjection tool removes these troublesome weeds from native habitats and wetlands where they tend to dominate sites, displace, and exclude native and desirable plants from growing and thriving in these landscapes.

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The JKinjection tool, along with its variety of needle types, have been discovered, developed, and recently awarded patents through the efforts of Mr. Phillip Burgess, Vancouver, WA and have shown remarkable versatility in controlling a number of plant types varying in stem size, stem thickness, and levels of pith, or hardness of stems. For example, the injection tool can be fitted with different needle types allowing it to be used on giant cane and Japanese knotweed that have thick-rigid, yet hollow stems, compared to yellow flag iris and giant hogweed, whose stems are quite thin. Applications may be made via stem injections or by cutting plants and injecting into the cut stem utilizing the newly developed ‘cavity needle’. Professional Applicator Herbicide Choices: When plants are growing in, and near water, applications may be made with Aquamaster® herbicide that is labeled for use in aquatic and wetland sites. Aquamaster does not contain a surfactant as part of the formulation. For applications on upland sites, the following products may be used: Roundup Pro®, Roundup Pro Concentrate®, and Aquamaster. Note: Homeowners may access labeled products through the Ortho® brand in the United States. Testing of other products is ongoing. Once tests are completed, additional choices of products may receive EPA and state approvals. Application Timing: Research on application timing is consistent with broadcast or spot treatment applications using Roundup herbicides. Generally, applications made early in the growing season are less efficacious than those made mid-summer through the early to late fall timings. The Jkinjection method of weed control broadens the window of applications and also allows applications to be made when weather conditions such as rainfall and excessive winds would otherwise prevent foliar applications from being made. This results in greater efficiency in scheduling labor, and better estimating contract completion. Application rates: The rates of application vary depending upon species. The table below provides the species controlled and the rates needed for control. Species Scientific name rate Labeled Pending Japanese knotweed Fallopia japonica 5 mls x Giant knotweed Fallopia sachalinensis 5 mls x Bohemian knotweed Fallopia x bohemica 5 mls x Giant cane Arundo donax 5 mls x Giant hogweed Heracleum mantagazzanum 5 mls of

5%sol. x

Canada thistle* Cirsium arvense 0.5 mls x Yellow flag iris* Iris pseudacorus 0.5 mls x Castor bean Ricinus communis 4 mls x Common horsetail Equisetum arvense 0.5 mls x Poison hemlock Conium maculatum 5 mls of

5% sol. x

Common reed

Phragmites australis 3-4 mls/stem

x

European beachgrass Ammophila arenaria 3-4 mls/stem

x

Purple loosestrife Lythrum salicaria 0.5-2 mls x Reed canary grass Phalaris arundinaceae 3-4 mls x Teasel Dipsacus sativas, or

D. follonum 2 mls x

*= use cavity needle

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Methods of application: The JKinjection technology enables applicators the opportunity to vary injection methods depending upon the type and growth stage of target vegetation. 1) Direct stem injection. Hollow stem species such as the knotweed group or Arundo/Giant cane may be treated by direct injection into the first of second inter-nodal region from the base of the plant. Reed grasses with hollow stems may also be injected. These stems would require the short needles as the stem diameter would be too small to easily use the standard long injection needles. Injections of these hollow stem grasses should also target the lower third portion of the stem. Hollow stem broadleaf weeds such as castorbean, giant hogweed, and poison hemlock may be stem injected as well. The short needles are ideal for these plants. Injections may successfully be made into the large-leaf stems, or into the main or primary stalks closer to the ground. 2. Injections into plants with pithy stems. Stems containing pith are best injected using the newly developed ‘cavity needle’. Plants are cut with loppers or other suitable devices, and the injection is made by inserting the cavity needle into the cut surface and pulling upwards as the injection is made thus filling the cavity created by the insertion of the cavity needle. The herbicide then moves, or translocates into the roots and stems. Needle Care and injection gun maintenance: JKinjection needles are specialized tools designed only for use in the JKinjection system only. Care should be taken to train applicators in the safety aspects of handling the JKinjection tool and the needles. The needles are precision made and can be bent if not handled properly. The applicator should inject at 90 ° angles to the stem being injected. Applying side pressure or excessive torque onto the tool and/or needle can result in needles bending or even breaking under some extreme conditions. Injection at 90° angles and removing the needle at 90° angles will extend the life of the equipment. Properly used, the needles have a potentially long service life. The JKinjection tool should be kept in a case when not in use. Regular daily maintenance and cleaning is recommended to ensure a long and useful performance from the tool and needles. Link to Powerpoint presentation 10 (Phil Burgess)

Strategic Control programmes in West Penwith

Bob Robinson, National Trust The National Trust is the custodian of a wide range of sensitive sites. Control of Japanese knotweed had been carried out by foliar spray for a number of years, but a more directed approach was considered desirable particularly in riparian habitats and in features such as Cornish hedges. This initiative led to research which culminated in the method of application to cut stems. There is a standard methodology at www.ex.ac.uk/knotweed Early work utilised a number of sites throughout Cornwall, but particular reference in this report is to West Penwith where work was initiated in Cot Valley in 2001. Community concern regarding herbicide use and the high level of access confirmed the advisability of the methodology. Treatment hours were reduced and monitoring continues. Success, in the Cot Valley, led to work being initiated in the nearby Kenidjack Valley. Here the Japanese knotweed extended upstream. Knowledge of the success in Cot also led to public desire for the areas beyond National Trust ownership to be treated. Thus a whole catchment approach evolved with a wide range of partners in 2006, though some earlier work had been carried out. This is being photographically monitored 3 times a year. Link to PowerPoint presentation 11 (Bob Robinson)

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Results of Experimental Treatments Ian Thompson: Nomix Enviro and Dow AgroSciences Ltd Japanese knotweed is one of the most damaging invasive species that land owners and managers are trying to eradicate in the South West of England. This presentation discusses several methods of control and results obtained. A series of 5 non-replicated field trials were conducted by Nomix Enviro throughout 2000 – 2006 on natural infestations of Fallopia japonica var. japonica and Fallopia x bohemica throughout Cornwall and Devon. The commercially available products TORDON* 22K, TORDON 101, GARLON*4, EVADE*, ARSENAL 50, ROUNDUP PRO BIACTIVE, HY-D SUPER, CASORON G, GLYFOS PROACTIVE and FETTLE were used as well as new mixtures based on the new compound – aminopyralid – from Dow AgroSciences. Foliar applications were made through a CP15 knapsack at 150-350 L/ha water to the Japanese Knotweed when it was at the fully unfurled leaf stage; and to the soil at 350 L/ha when no growth was evident. The trials were observed 16 weeks after treatment. The results obtained showed that best control was achieved using Tordon 22K and Garlon 4 with Mixture B. Limited control was achieved using Arsenal 50 (soil application) and HY-D. In conclusion all products showed some control of Japanese knotweed: recommendations are that Tordon 22K is the first choice (where no desirable trees, shrubs or water are present); Garlon 4 with Mixture B for all other non-aquatic situations; and Glyphosate or 2,4-D Amine in aquatic situations. 2007 research is on-going. Trademarks of Dow AgroSciences LLC Link to Powerpoint 12 (Ian Thompson) A Contractors Perspective Ian Graham & Richard Minton, Complete Weed Control Ltd Link to Powerpoint 13 (Ian Graham)

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Posters

Pieret, Nora. Gembloux Agricultural University, Belgium Setting up of a support cell for invasive plant species management. Proposal of practical and prevention solutions to manage invasive plant species along river banks in the Walloon Region (Belgium). The submitted poster presents the first results obtained during a project financed by the Walloon Region administration services in Belgium (DGRNE-DCENN). This project began in 2006 and consists in the first public action in respect with the CBD (Rio, 2002) concerning plant invasions. Three target invasive plant species were selected: Fallopia sp., Impatiens glandullifera, and Heracleum mantegazzianum. The aims are: 1) to achieve a systematic inventory along river banks of the Walloon Region to describe the extent and spatial pattern of invasions; 2) To test some management practices in order to quantify their price and efficiency for managers; 3) To create a standard inventory methodology for managers.

de Retuerto, Martin. Wessex Chalk Stream Project Living River Project Invasive Plant Strategy The Conservation Strategy for the River Avon Special Area of Conservation (published 2003) identifies issues that affect the river system. Two major projects have been established as a result to run concurrently for four years (2006-2010): the STREAM LIFE-Nature Project, funded by the EU and focuses on restoration of the River Avon SAC and Avon Valley SPA, and the Living River HLF Project. The latter is an exciting £1 m project focusing on the River Avon and its catchment in Wiltshire, Hampshire and Dorset. Its goal is to improve the river and wetland environment through both practical work and by increasing local understanding of the river system. A key element of the Biodiversity restoration objectives is the establishment of a non-native invasive plant control strategy, primarily focussing on three of the most serious invasive plant species in the River Avon Catchment – Japanese Knotweed (Fallopia japonica), Giant Hogweed (Heracleum mantegazzianum) and Himalayan Balsam (Impatiens glandulifera). Learning from the experiences of other projects in the UK it will develop and demonstrate a strategic approach to dealing with invasive plants across the catchment, that engages stakeholders in planning, action and monitoring, and will be sustainable after the project has finished. The experiences gained will be transferable to watercourses throughout the UK and Europe. The programme will produce

S GIS databases of invasive non-native plants, based at county biological records centres and kept up to date

S Creation of a self-sustaining Stakeholder Forum, tackling issues independently & using demonstration projects for reference

S A 20-year catchment wide plan for the eradication of Japanese knotweed, giant hogweed and Himalayan balsam.

S At least one demonstration project (candidate sites are the Salisbury area (upper Avon) and Ringwood area (lower Avon))

The project will ensure that areas affected are managed for their heritage value both during and after the duration of the project. Contact: Martin de Retuerto, Wessex Chalk Streams Project (Invasive plants lead), Tel: 01380 737008 Email: martin.deretuerto@naturalengland.org.uk Martin Gilchrist, Living River Project, Tel: 01722 334856, Email: martin.gilchrist@naturalengland.org.uk

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Burgess, P. Stem Injection Systems (Europe) Ltd In 2004, the Jkinjectiontool® was developed by JK International LLC for individual stem injection principles using glyphosate based herbicides including Roundup®. The concept evolved around the treatment of Japanese Knotweed. Further research has shown that the JKinjectiontool® is effective on many hollow-stem and pithy-stemmed weeds including giant knotweed (Polygonum sachalinense), Bohemian knotweed (Polygonum bohemicum), and Himalayan knotweed (Polygonum polystachyum), giant cane (Arundo donax), Canada thistle (Cirsium arvense), field horsetail (Equisetum arvense), poison hemlock(Conium maculatum L.), giant hogweed (Heracleum mantegazzianum), castor bean (Ricinus communis), and yellow flag iris (Iris pseudocorus). The JKinjection tool removes these troublesome weeds from native habitats and wetlands where they tend to dominate sites, displace, and exclude native and desirable plants from growing and thriving in these landscapes. Using water friendly herbicides including Aquamaster®, the tool has high success rate with problem areas in and around water. The key benefits of the Jkinjectiontool® are numerous:-

SCan be used in all weathers including heavy rain and wind. STargeted application to specific plants. SCan be injected throughout most of the active growing season. SOne application is sufficient to eradicate the Japanese Knotweed

The advantages of the Jkinjectiontool® are significantly higher than using traditional folia spraying and the reduced risk to the environment by eliminating cross contamination and spray drift. The revolutionary new Jkinjectiontool® can be purchased with all ancillary products and training through Stem Injection Systems (Europe) Ltd. www.steminjectionsystems.com & www.jkinjectiontools.com Cycleau Cornwall, Cornwall County Council Habitat Action: Control of invasive introduced plant species, Upper Fowey Valley, Cornwall Fallopia japonica (Japanese knotweed) is an invasive introduced plant which causes ecological and structural damage. It had been reported along a stretch of the upper River Fowey from Bolventor to Golitha Falls (a National Nature Reserve) a distance of 11.5 kilometres. Spread of the plant downstream via small pieces of rhizome or above ground material has been observed previously in similar river corridors, including along the White River, St Austell. Control of such colonies with high risk of spread is a priority, starting at the highest point of infestation in the catchment. 15 colonies were recorded on the banks of the Fowey, ranging from 20 to more than 2000 square metres on land under various ownerships. Sites where Japanese knotweed has been treated can provide areas suitable for colonisation by other invasive plant species such as Impatiens glandulifera, (Himalayan balsam). This plant may also affect hydrology by enabling seasonal consolidation of sand bars in the river. Monitoring and control strategies were needed that took this succession into account. Steps taken to achieve action:

1. Discussion with Cornwall Knotweed Forum and English Nature regarding priority of catchment.

2. Initial survey from previous records and road/publicly accessible land by Cornwall County Council Vegetation Advisor.

3. Letters and visits to all landowners by Facilitator and Vegetation Advisor 4. Global Positioning Survey (GPS) or measured survey to determine extent of colonies. 5. Development of control strategy and letting of 3 year contract for treatment with support

from English Nature (CCC Commercial Services). 6. Implementation of chemical treatment strategy for Japanese knotweed and mobilisation of

volunteers to assist with Himalayan balsam removal. 7. Assessment of results and modification of strategy for following years.

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Macfarlane J. and Jenkin L. E. T. University of Exeter, Cornwall Assessment of viability of Fallopia spp. (Japanese knotweed) rhizome Spalding A. Spalding Associates, Truro & Cleartrack Salcey-Evl Ltd, Milton Keynes Strategic management of knotweed on railway and development sites

Beman H. University College, Falmouth. An assessment of the germination potential of seeds of the invasive Crocosmia x crocosmiiflora under conditions which may be experienced in conditions of predicted climate change

Chell A. Cornwall County Council Assessment of efficacy of methods of control of Impatiens glandulifera (Himalayan balsam) within the Camel catchment (Cornwall, U.K.) Chell A. Cornwall County Council Stem injection for the control of Rhododendron ponticum, Prunus laurocerasus and Prunus lusitanica Macfarlane J S and Jenkin L J University of Exeter in Cornwall Combination control of Fallopia x bohemica and regeneration of vegetation on a coastal site in south Cornwall UK

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Field Trip The second morning was spent, braving the elements, visiting a range of sites to demonstrate different treatment programmes. These included a reservoir, a river catchment, a public open space and former brownfield site, and a country park containing sensitive flora species. The final destination was Duchy College, Rosewarne, Camborne for lunch and demonstrations of technical equipment.

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Argal Dam Fig. 3 Argal Dam, Fig. 4 Overview of downstream, invasive vegetation e.g. Buddleia Fig. 5 Treatment of

Japanese knotweed, close to the waters edge, by stem injection on the reservoir bank.

Rame Common Fig. 6 & 7 Phased herbicide treatment programme

Figure 6

Figure 7

Tuckingmill Valley Park

Fig. 8 & 9 Regeneration project on a previously mined site illustrating land ownership issues

Figure 8

Figure 9

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Speaker Profiles Lois Child: Lois is co-author of The Japanese Knotweed Manual. Over the last 15 years, she has been involved in a wide range of invasive plant research and consultancy projects and is regularly called upon to give advice to developers and landowners. Lois Child currently co-ordinates the Centre for Environmental Studies at Loughborough University, UK. Colin Hawke: Colin Hawke is a Chartered Forester trained at Bangor. He worked for Gwynedd County Council in the late 1970s where he first encountered Japanese knotweed. He joined Cornwall County Council in 1983. Following many requests for advice on Japanese knotweed he wrote the Arboricultural Research note 106 for this species in 1992 and was integral in the formation of the then Cornwall Knotweed Control Forum for Cornwall. Simon Ford: Regional Nature Conservation Advisor for the National Trust in Wessex. Previously, Property Manager for the National Trust in North Cornwall, Simon leads on invasive species for the National Trust across the UK. He is one of the founder members of the Cornwall Knotweed Forum and has carried out extensive research in to stem injection. James Macfarlane: James Macfarlane is a Vegetation Adviser with Cornwall County Council. His background is in horticulture and he is carrying out further study on Japanese knotweed through the University of Exeter. He has particular responsibility for the control of the plant within the highway network and on County Council land, on which there are more than 1600 recorded sites. Dick Shaw: Dick has worked in CABI’s weed biocontrol group for 13 years and in that time has been involved in programmes against plants including Gorse, broom, heather and Clematis for Australia and New Zealand, and privet for the Mascarene Islands. He is currently managing the Japanese knotweed and Hydrocotyle programmes as CABI’s interest in European targets grows. Philip Burgess: Director of Clark County Weed Management, Mr Burgess has been working for the past sixteen years in Weed Science. He developed the methodology in the United States, for controlling Japanese knotweed in riparian areas. Research in watersheds, for the control of Japanese knotweed, was led by Mr. Philip Burgess and Dr. Ron Crockett. Loveday Jenkin: Dr Loveday Jenkin is currently working for the Natural Environment Service of Cornwall County Council and is an Honorary University Fellow for the University of Exeter in Cornwall. She is a plant eco-biochemist, a founder member of the Cornwall Knotweed Forum and currently chair of the Research committee. She was previously the Lecturer in Environmental Science at Camborne School of Mines, part of the University of Exeter in Cornwall where she coordinated and supervised environmental research and experimental trials on behalf of the Forum. Barry Mulholland: Dr Barry Mulholland has been working in the discipline of plant stress physiology for 17 years. For the last 4 years Barry has been working as a Lecturer in Plant Science / Horticulture at Duchy College and leads a number of diverse plant-related research projects. Lisa Rennocks: Lisa Rennocks currently works as a Research Assistant on a knotweed eradication project at Duchy College. A graduate from the University of Leicester, Lisa has worked for the RSPB on conservation and biodiversity orientated projects and gained field experience in the Seychelles, monitoring the flora and fauna of Aride Island. Nick Tocher: Nick Tocher has been working for tcm and tcm r&d for over 6 years consulting on and researching non-native invasive plants within the UK and Europe. In his current role as research coordinator he is at the forefront of the company’s research and is actively involved with

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tcm r&d’s research program at the University of Bath which aims to develop a test for determining the viability of Japanese knotweed Rhizome. Barbara Tokarska-Guzik: Dr Barbara Tokarska-Guzik holds the Chair of Plant Systematics in the Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection at University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland.

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Registered Conference Participants Nora Pieret Agricultural Engineer Gembloux Agricultural University Ecology Dept Ian Thompson Nomix and Dow Agro sciences Ltd James Ferguson Masstock Arable UK Joanna Maynard Duchy of Cornwall Matthew Sully Environment Officer Environment Agency Paul King FRM Technical Specialist Environment Agency Melissa Clarkson Technical officer Environment Agency Steve Griffiths Environment Officer Environment Agency James Calow Principal Consultant Middlemarch Environmental Ltd Richard Archibald Silvanus Services Ltd Jon Elliott Silvanus Services Ltd Dr Lois Child Centre for Environmental Studies Loughborough University Dr Angela von Kaenel Water Protection Laboratory Switzerland Richard Coppard Landscape Architect W S Atkins Ltd Alison Mc Iroy Argyll and Bute Council Dr Neil Strong Arboriculturalist Network Rail

Andrew Heather Territory Off-Track Engineer Network Rail Robert Foster Off-Track Manager Network Rail Martin de Reteurto Wessex Chalk Streams Project Wiltshire Wildlife Trust Louise Smith North West Kent Countryside Partnership Graham Pilmoor Workforce Safety and Environment Advisor Network Rail Susan Barber Territory Off Track Engineer Network Rail Gerald Tombs Landsense Ltd Sean O’Hea Mid Cornwall Reserves Officer Cornwall Wildlife Trust Gethin Bowes Invasive Plant Species Officer Caerphilly County Borough Council James Macfarlane Cornwall County Council Vegetation Advisor Loveday Jenkin Cycleau Cornwall Coordinator Cornwall County Council Colin Hawke Natural Environment Officer Cornwall County Council Alison Clough Head Gardener Trewidden Bolitho Estates David Layland Joint Managing Director Stem injection systems Ltd Cityscape Design and Engineering Group Ltd Richard Podmore Joint Managing Director Stem Injection Systems Ltd Cityscape Design and Engineering Group Ltd

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Phil Burgess Clark County Weed Management U.S.A Elena Barni Dipartimento di Biologia Vegetale University of Turin, Italy Lucia Sitzia PhD student University of Turin, Italy Simon Ford Regional Nature Conservation Advisor National Trust Peter Scott Peter Scott Tree Care Ltd Gerry Brain Countryside Officer Serco Restormel Jacqueline Davey Environmental Science and Technology Camborne school of Mines Rita Stephen Environmental Science and Technology Camborne School of Mines Dr C Turtle Ecologist Cornwall County Council Richard Shaw CABI Dr B. Tokarska-Guzik Dept. Plant Systematics University of Silesia, Poland

David Finnerty Area off track Engineer Network Rail Nick Tocher TCM Ian Graham, Alun Abel & Alan Jones Complete Weed Control Ltd Cathy McGarvey Environmental Coordinator South West Water Lisa Rennocks Researcher Duchy College, Cornwall Dr Barry Mulholland Lecturer Duchy College, Cornwall Matt Button Technician Duchy College, Cornwall Matt Montgomery Leyden Kirby Associates Ltd Gary Jarvis Bob Robinson National Trust Penwith Adrian Drake Highways Dept. Cornwall County Council Vicky Hale Ecologist Capita Symonds Allan Frake SW Region Environment Agency

Trade Stand Exhibitors Complete Weed Control Ltd TCM (R&D) Leyden Kirby Associates Ltd Stem injection systems Ltd Cityscape Design and Engineering Group Ltd Nomix/Dow