STUDENTS from Honiton Community College joined members of the Devon Wildlife Trust to root out an alien invader at a local beauty spot.
STUDENTS from Honiton Community College joined members of the Devon Wildlife Trust to root out an alien invader at a local beauty spot.
The group went to Blackberry Camp to find Himalayan balsam, which was introduced to Britain in 1839 and has the potential to wipe out native plant species.
Devon Wildlife Trust volunteer John Garland said: "This is a serious problem.
Natural England hit the alarm button and have organised some raiding parties to try and wipe out the invader from some selected areas that feed into the River Axe.
"We made our way down stream, near Blackberry Camp, looking for the dreaded plant.
Sliding down banks, climbing over fences, splashing in the river and taking in the beautiful views, we came across large areas that the plant had started to grow in and wiped it out.
"We managed to complete our task and to set up base for the next time!
"We will be meeting again at Blackberry Camp on July 1 at 10am, for another session. Volunteers welcome.
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