Where: Elmbridge Meadows, an open space in Berrylands which runs alongside the Hogsmill river.
This event is being held in conjunction with the woodland management office of Kingston University. We have been asked to meet with them at the headline coordinates for a bit housing keeping, instructions and signing in purposes. The event is to start at 10am, and will continue until 3pm, although the rangers will be there until 4.30pm and everyone is welcome is stay until they are finished.
Himalayan Balsam is an invasive, fast growing plant, which overcomes local species and causes large scale erosion of the ground it covers. The plant, although beautiful, can seed quickly with explosive pods which fling the seed up to 7m away!. It is easy enough to remove by the root and over successive years the area can be cleared.
All you will need to take part are some sturdy shoes or wellies, (yes you can bring waders and go into the river itself) and some gardening gloves, as the plants sap is an irritant. Long sleeves are recommended as the nettles can be quite brutal at this time of year.
Please bring some lunch with you as there aren't that many shops in the area, cakes to share would be nice but not essential.
Children and dogs are welcome but must be supervised at all times by an adult as we will be working near the water. On street parking can be found along the roads nearby. Last but not least, there are some lovely caches in the area including the shrine to England's first geocache and a couple of tree climbs for the brave!
I hope to see you there.