There are many non-native species in our local environment.
Some don’t cause harm but others – known as invasive non-native species - can threaten local biodiversity by outcompeting native species and spreading disease.
There is concern the number and variety of non-native species in the UK will increase due to milder weather conditions.
The most common non-native invasive species in Torfaen are Japanese Knotweed and Himalayan Balsam, both of which grow fast and shade out other plants.
Other non-native species include Montbretia, Cherry Laurel and Cotoneaster.
It is the landowners’ responsibility to treat or have treated invasive non-native species.
Japanese Knotweed needs to be sprayed or stem-injected for a couple of years and can only be removed to a licensed site.
It is an offence to plant invasive non-native species in the UK and carries a maximum penalty of £5,000 and or six months in prison.
What we’re doing?
- We have a programme for eradicating Japanese Knotweed on council land.
- When we get a report of an invasive non-native species, we assess the species and identify the best eradication technique.
How you can help
- Report any invasive non-native species via the INNS Mapper website or download the app.
- Join a Blaenau Gwent and Torfaen Local Nature Partnership volunteer Himalayan Balsam pull. For more information, contact kristen.thobroe@torfaen.gov.uk
- Don’t dump garden waste.
Useful information
- Welsh Government advice on injurious and invasive non-native species (opens in new tab)
- The Great Britain Invasive Non-Native Species Strategy 2023 to 2030 (nonnativespecies.org) (opens in new tab)