Giant Hogweed – Credit Farming for Water European Innovation Partnership
Drones are to be used to conduct a survey of where Giant Hogweed is present on rivers in the county especially in West Tipperary. The plant is a non-native invasive hazardous plant, which can cause serious skin burns and other health issues. Children are particularly at risk, if they come in contact with the plant. Severe infestations of giant hogweed occur along the Toem, Cappawhite and Cahernahaille tributaries of the upper Mulkear/Dead River catchment in the Cappawhite area. The plant can spread and take over river banks where its seeds are transported by the water.
A drone aerial survey of the affected river corridors will be carried out on days between Thursday 27th June and Thursday 11th July 2024 (weather conditions permitting) to determine the location and extent of giant hogweed infestation.
The Local Authority Water Programme (LAWPRO) in partnership with the local community, Tipperary County Council and other stakeholders will examine the findings and then work to develop a remedial action plan to control its spread and work towards its eradication.
This work will be carried out under the Farming for Water European Innovation Partnership (EIP) Project, which is working with farmers and landowners to address issues affecting water quality. Further information is available from the Farming for Water EIP project team by email at [email protected] or by contacting Tipperary County Council on 0818 065 000.
The Project is administered from Heffernan House at Rossmore Village, Tipperary town.
