SURREY SCOUT WATER ACTIVITIES CLUB
We have recieved the below from the Enviroment Agency.
Please be on the look out and report any sightings as requested
The Environment Agency have been managing floating pennywort as part of their annual maintenance programme for several years in locations such as the River Wey and Foudry Brook. Unfortunately, the plant has spread vigorously this year due to a combination of warm summer temperatures and ongoing dry weather. This has resulted in the EA establishing an Area Action Group to ensure a consistent and effective approach at tackling floating pennywort across the Thames Area.
The priority at the moment is to concentrate on areas where our action will be most effective to manage the spread of the pennywort (predominantly the Thames and Kennet). We’ve already removed many tonnes of the plant during October and November and are in the process of procuring additional support from specialist contractors. The Area Action Group are also contacting riparian landowners and stakeholders who may be able to inform or support our response.
One of the key tasks they need help with is mapping the current distribution of floating pennywort, particularly in the Wey catchment. If you do come across this species, please report it, either using the Plant Tracker app (which can be downloaded to smart phones) or by emailing your sightings to THAMESWESTFRB@environment-agency.gov.uk. The attached briefing provides more info on the current situation and how you can help.
