A reflective review
This year has presented a challenging landscape for invasive non-native plant management. Prolonged wet weather wreaked havoc on herbicide application schedules, while a faltering property market caused a ripple effect on invasive weed surveys. Tightened budgets added further complexity, but despite these hurdles, the International Invasive Weed Conference proved to be an extraordinary success, thanks to the collective efforts of industry professionals and partners.
Pre-conference connections
The event began with a lively pre-conference meal that featured a quiz, bringing together newcomers and seasoned experts in a friendly yet competitive atmosphere. Team Tree of Heaven, led by Professor Max Wade, narrowly triumphed by half of a point over Water Fern Weevil, led by the newly appointed Invasive Weed Control Group Chair, Robert Mitchell. The evening offered a perfect mix of networking, collaboration opportunities, and camaraderie among attendees and even old business rivals.
Session one: Glyphosate and its alternatives
Chaired by Ian Graham, Director of Complete Weed Control and Chair of the Amenity Forum, the first session centred on glyphosate, with presentations from Eugenia Siccardi at the University of Florence and Dr Jan Pergl, Institute of Botany CAS in the Czech Republic. Their insights gave our conference its international stamp and shared glyphosate’s contentious position in the EU with practical advice for limiting variables to achieve consistent results when managing Japanese Knotweed.
Session two: The aquatic challenge
The second session, led by Robert Mitchell, marked the first-ever conference segment dedicated to aquatic weeds. This session spotlighted the growing threat of invasive aquatic plants like Water Primrose and Floating Pennywort. Industry experts delivered compelling presentations, emphasizing the urgent need for proactive management in aquatic ecosystems.
Panel debate: Political vs practical glyphosate use
Despite expectations of a heated debate, the panel discussion was unexpectedly harmonious. There was a consensus that glyphosate remains a "necessary evil" due to its unparalleled effectiveness and cost efficiency. However, the panel stressed the importance of integrated weed management strategies and sustainability to reduce long-term dependence on the chemical.
Final session: Guidance, policy, and legislation
The day concluded with a session chaired by Dr Katherina Dehen-Schmutz from Coventry University. Highlights included a presentation by Brian Taylor of The Knotweed Company, who delved into compliance challenges surrounding waste legislation in the industry. Defra and the Non-Native Species Inspectorate wrapped up the session with updates on policy changes and reinforced the importance of addressing invasive species promptly and effectively.
A collaborative success
The 2024 International Invasive Weed Conference once again underscored the importance of collaboration, innovation, and continuous learning in tackling invasive non-native plants. From sharing practical strategies to fostering discussions on policy and legislation, the conference provided invaluable insights for all attendees. It reinforced the industry's commitment to sustainable, science-led solutions in managing these persistent ecological threats.
Once again, thanks to everyone that atteneded. Watch this space for more information on next year's events...
Official photos