New Knotweed code of practice launched
Japanese Knotweed Control is returning to SALTEX to raise awareness of a new Code of Practice for the management of Japanese knotweed.
The INNSA Code of practice foreword has been written by Trevor Renals of the Environment Agency, and the Code has been co-authored by INNSA (The Invasive Non-Native Specialists Association), alongside plant experts from Japanese Knotweed Control (JKC). JKC are founder members of INNSA, and at the forefront of encouraging the highest standards within the industry. INNSA aims to provide members, customers and clients with peace of mind and quality standards assurance.
The Code of Practice contains the most up-to-date advice for those who may encounter, or need to manage, land that is susceptible to or infested with the invasive plant. Japanese Knotweed carries a significant threat to amenity, built and natural environments of the UK.
In following the guidance of the new Code, users can avoid excessive and recurring costs, physical damage to man-man structures, harming the environment and even potential legal action.
INNSA and Japanese Knotweed Control are urging organisations to follow the guidelines outlined in the Code of Practice to raise the quality of service in the industry. Property owners, alongside professionals and industries that serve them, will be afforded greater peace of mind thanks to the assurance that, using the Code, Japanese knotweed will be controlled at the highest possible standard.
Japanese Knotweed Control was founded in 2004, as one of the UK's first specialist knotweed remediation companies. Today it operates nationwide to remove invasive plants from domestic, commercial, and public properties. JKC has drawn from its extensive experience to provide valuable insight for the writing of the Code, and now JKC is campaigning to raise awareness and encourage organisations to follow the advice.
David Layland, joint managing director at Japanese Knotweed Control, said: "Events like SALTEX are critical in spreading awareness of important campaigns, and building their momentum throughout the industry. Last year's campaign, Gone But Not Forgotten, proved incredibly helpful in debunking the many myths and misconceptions surrounding Japanese knotweed. The new Code of Practice will prove just as useful; helping readers to navigate complex legislation such as that of waste and biodiversity, whilst outlining management options to control infestations in a way that reduces risk and saves time and money."
The key recommendations of the Code include:
- Identify any suspected Japanese knotweed on a site as early as possible, to allow the accurate assessment and preparation of cost options.
- Keep the amount of any Japanese knotweed-infested soil excavated to a minimum, and never accept topsoil until it has been inspected for Japanese knotweed rhizome (root).
- Make sure staff can identify Japanese knotweed rhizome and vegetation so any infestation can be better controlled.
Japanese Knotweed Control will be at stand J189 to talk to SALTEX visitors about the INNSA Code of Practice and the management of Japanese knotweed. SALTEX 2017 will mark JKC's 11th appearance at the conference.