PBA Applied Ecology
PBA Applied Ecology

Invasive Species

The UK is host to a wide range of invasive non-native flora and fauna, many of which cause considerable costs to landowners, developers and utilities operators. With increasingly stringent legislation coming into effect, such as the Invasive Alien Species Regulations (EU 1143/2014) and the recently implemented Alien Invasive Species Order 2019 (SI 2019/527), prevention, early detection and management are at the forefront of invasive species control. PBA have extensive experience working in direct contact with both terrestrial and aquatic invasive species within the UK, and can provide solutions for the problems posed by invasive species at all stages of your project, from planning through to delivery.

What services do we offer?

 

PBA has extensive capabilities in providing terrestrial and aquatic invasive species solutions, including:

  • Field surveys to determine the presence and status of invasive non-native plants

  • Field surveys to determine the presence and status of invasive non-native aquatic fauna

  • Invasive species management strategies, including Japanese knotweed and Himalayan balsam

  • Eradication feasibility scoping and management plans

  • Bespoke biosecurity solutions

Detection and biosecurity

Despite increasingly strict environmental legislation surrounding invasive non-native species, new species continue to appear in the UK, and existing species continue to spread. Invasive non-native fauna have the potential to inflict serious economic and environmental damage, affecting business, ecology and recreation. We have extensive expertise in the survey of invasive fauna and flora and our effective applied approach ensures the risk of spread is minimised and the highest standards of biosecurity are employed.

We have the capability to provide technical on-site guidance during development projects where non-native invasive species are present, such as signal crayfish Pacifastacus leniusculus and killer shrimp Dikerogammarus villosus, which can be highly detrimental to freshwater fisheries. Through field identification, GIS mapping and reporting, PBA can identify and mitigate the risks that invasive species pose to your project. The prevention of spread of invasive species is crucial to effective control, and our precautionary approach to biosecurity reflects Environment Agency, Natural England and Defra guidance.

Managing invasive species

Through the use of targeted management techniques and implementing bespoke management plans, effective control of certain invasive species can be achieved. Control of problem invasive plant species such as Himalayan balsam Impatiens glandulifera and Japanese knotweed Fallopia japonica can be effectively implemented at sites, reducing the risk of spread and potential fines and delays. Having PBA engaged early with your project can help determine the level of risk posed, allowing us to provide practical advice on how best to address the problem.

For further information, or if you have any queries regarding the services your project may require, please contact us.