New Technique to Control Hogweed in Boyne Shows Signs of Working

By: Shazia Nazir, Local Journalism Initiative

Conservation Halton (CH) is working in partnership on a ten-year project with the Milton Phase 3 Landowners Group to control Hogweed, a poisonous plant with sap that can blister skin. The landowners’ group is comprised of 19 community developers serving as project managers for the restoration of key natural heritage features and functions in the Boyne valley lands.

Upon completion, these lands will be dedicated to the Town of Milton.  “The removal of Giant Hogweed and restoration of the Boyne lands is an innovative example of collaboration between a conservation authority and community developers. Utilizing nature-based solutions we are building more resilient ecosystems and protecting public safety, all while saving both time and money,” Conservation Halton President and CEO Hassaan Basit said. Conservation Halton (CH) has successfully managed 1,820 m² of Giant Hogweed or approximately 11,000 stems to-date.

According to Conservation Halton, the technique has sped up the Boyne valley restoration, and reduced the use of herbicides by 99%.  “This approach was was possible in Boyne because the project area was not covered in native trees and shrubs,” CH project Manager Nigel Finney said.

CH will manage the area’s remaining restoration projects Throughout the remaining restoration projects in the valley. The land will be transferred to the Town of Milton as protected greenspace once work is completed.

Watch the five second video below to see the progress.