Volunteers tackle invasive plant at Cornish beauty spot

Staff volunteers have been tackling an unwelcome plant that’s taken root at a Cornish beauty spot.

A team spent a day clearing red valerian from the Upton Towans Nature Reserve at Hayle, which is an important sand dune habitat managed by Cornwall Wildlife Trust.

The dunes are home to rare plants and wildlife found in very few other places, but red valerian has been spreading and crowding out delicate flowers which butterflies, bees and skylarks depend on.

Red valerian is a perennial plant that produces many seeds, which can be dispersed by wind and water, allowing it to spread rapidly. 

Emily Green, our Volunteering and Sponsorships Coordinator, said: “Our colleagues have really enjoyed getting involved with Cornwall Wildlife Trust’s conservation work. Volunteering days have been a fantastic way to support local biodiversity while giving back to the communities we serve. We’re proud to partner with the trust and help protect these special places for future generations.”

This is the second day of conservation volunteering undertaken by NGED staff for Cornwall Wildlife Trust, with another team recently clearing ragwort from Helman Tor Nature Reserve near Bodmin to allow native grazing animals to return to the site.

Rowan Hartgroves, Cornwall Wildlife Trust’s Corporate Partnerships Officer, said: “National Grid’s support for our nature reserves has been outstanding. Their sponsorship helps us carry out vital conservation work, while their volunteering teams bring energy and commitment on the ground.

“From restoring grazing habitats at Helman Tor, to improving bog and heathland at Allet, and protecting rare dune wildlife at Upton Towans, their combined contribution is making a lasting difference for Cornwall’s wildlife and wild places.”