Invasive Non-Native Species (INNS)
Invasive Non-Native Species threaten the Park’s wildlife and habitats, but through collective action we can reduce their impact.
What are they?
Invasive non-native species (INNS) can have a big impact on local biodiversity, to the point where it can wipe out native flora and fauna. As part of the Bannau Brycheiniog Management Plan the management and control of invasive non-native species is a key component to making sure the biodiversity within our landscape is protected.
While some non-native species don’t cause problems, there are three major non-native species that can have a huge impact on our landscape.
Himalayan Balsam
These tall pink flowering plants are usually found close to rivers and streams. Growing up to 2m tall, one flowering plant can spread thousands of seeds. Due to its fast-growing nature, it outcompetes the flowers around it and can impact the structural integrity of riverbanks. lease take action if you’ve spotted Himalayan Balsam.
Japanese Knotweed
Like Himalayan Balsam, Japanese Knotweed can grow at an alarming rate, growing 4cm per day and being as tall as 3m. It also can grow on riverbanks and smother surrounding plant life leading to a destabilisation of riverbank structures. It could also have an impact on houses as it will grow through weaknesses in the structure, if it is present in your home it could impact on mortgages. Please take action if you’ve spotted Japanese Knotweed.
Giant Hogweed
Giant Hogweed, like our other famous invasive non-native species, grows rapidly. Some can grow as big as 5m tall. When it dies back in winter, it can also leave bare ground making riverbanks unstable to erosion. Where it differs from its counterpart, is that it contains a toxic chemical which can irritate skin and can lead to severe blistering when exposed to sunlight. Please take action if you’ve spotted Giant Hogweed.
What to do if you spot an INNS?
If you see an invasive non-native species, it’s important to record it and let the National Park know what it is and where it is. You can also record it through the Wales LERC app, or you can contact our ecology team. By letting us know we can get invasive non-native species under control before they become a long-term risk to the National Park landscape.
