Orbex Volunteers Tackle Invasive Plants in Habitat Restoration Effort Along the River Findhorn

Volunteers from Orbex, an orbital launch services company based in Forres, Moray, became eco-warriors for the day when they joined Wild Things for the Habitat Restoration Project (HRP) event this month. The volunteers took on the task of weeding on a grand scale, targeting invasive plant species that threaten the local ecosystem.

At Wild Things, we are leading a vital campaign to combat non-native invasive plant species along the south side of the River Findhorn, north of Forres. The charity is focusing on controlling three key invasive species: Giant Hogweed, Japanese Knotweed, and Himalayan Balsam.

Paul Kendall, Wild Things Fieldwork Manager, explained, “Himalayan Balsam is particularly problematic along the riverbanks. While it’s a beautiful flowering plant, it spreads quickly and crowds out native species, which are better suited to preventing riverbank erosion. The Orbex volunteers helped remove large sections of Himalayan Balsam, which has shallow roots that make it easy to control without damaging surrounding vegetation.”

The volunteers made significant progress in tackling the first large swathe of Himalayan Balsam this year, getting to the plants before they had a chance to flower and set seed, thus helping prevent their further spread along the river.

By participating in this essential habitat restoration work, Orbex volunteers helped safeguard the local environment and contributed to riverbank conservation efforts. It was a great example of corporate social responsibility in action, with the team making a positive impact on local biodiversity and ecosystem restoration.

Photos courtesy of Will Hall https://www.willhallwildlife.com

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