Tackling Invasive Species
Non-native species around the shores of Lough Neagh and within the Lough itself are causing real harm. From Japanese knotweed to Himalayan balsam, giant hogweed and zebra mussels the Lough’s ecosystem is being damaged, and its native species are under threat.
The Northern Ireland Environment Agency is using a variety of natural methods including cattle grazing and balsam bashing to stop the spread of these harmful invasive species. As some non-natives arrive accidentally on leisure crafts, owners of paddleboats, jet skis and motorboats are also being urged to clean their equipment when moving them between waterways.
What are invasive species and why are they an issue?
Rose Muir from the Northern Ireland Environment Agency’s Invasive Non-Native Species team explains what invasive species are and why they are an issue for our environment, including waterways such as Lough Neagh.
The threat of invasive species
Rose Muir from the Northern Ireland Environment Agency’s Invasive Non-Native Species team explains how some invasive species around Lough Neagh are overpowering native plants and damaging its ecosystems.
Limiting the spread of invasive species
Rose Muir from the Northern Ireland Environment Agency’s Invasive Non-Native Species team outlines the natural methods being used to stop the spread of harmful non-native species such as Japanese knotweed and Himalayan balsam around the shores of Lough Neagh.
The importance of check-clean-dry for water users
Did you know that some invasive species around Lough Neagh have arrived accidentally on water sports equipment? As Rose Muir from the Northern Ireland Environment Agency explains, we can help limit the spread by doing three simple things - check, clean and dry.