More information
Description
The problem addressed by the project:
Sosnowski Heracleum can be found in 71.5 ha of the Debrzno commune. In 2018 and 2019 Heracleum liquidation procedures were successfully carried out in the commune. This year liquidation work continues. The effects so far are satisfactory, but their continuation is necessary due to seeds stored in the soil (they can germinate for 6-8 years). In 2018 and 2019 releasing the seeds was restrained on the entire area. If activities are continued over the next years, there is a real chance to eliminate.
Main activities planned to meet this challenge:
As part of the liquidation procedures, we plan: excavation with cutting the upper root (2 times in the 2nd quarter + 1 time in the 3rd quarter), manual spraying (3 times in the Q2 + 1 in the Q3), manual mowing (2 times -1 in Q2 and Q3). In addition, we plan to carry out information activities (3 meetings, publishing 2,000 leaflets). We also plan to supervise the implementation of the project. For this purpose, it is planned to purchase equipment (one notebook with software, 1 camera - SLR + lens
Expected achievement:
The expected result of the project will be the removal of Sosnowski’s Heracleum in an area of nearly 42.7930 ha. The remaining area of Heracleum in the Debrzno Commune, ie 28.63 ha, owned by National
Expected achievement:
The target group of the project are all residents of and tourists visiting our commune. The main benefit of the project will be the improvement of safety of residents and tourists.
Summary of project results
- The project aimed to tackle the issues and obstacles related to eliminating the widespread invasive plant species, Sosnowsky''s hogweed. It successfully raised awareness among local residents about the proper handling of this harmful plant.
Possible additional challenges solved by the project:
* Biodiversity protection: Limiting the spread of giant hogweed contributed to the protection of native plant and animal species.
* Environmental improvement: The removal of giant hogweed improved soil and water quality, as well as increased the aesthetics of green spaces.
* Public safety: The reduction of giant hogweed occurrence has reduced the risk of severe burns to humans and animals.
* Local cooperation: The project may have contributed to strengthening cooperation between residents, non-governmental organizations, and local authorities.
* Job creation: The project may have created new jobs related to the removal of giant hogweed.
The eradication of giant hogweed solves many significant problems, both ecological and social. Here are some of them:
* Biodiversity protection: Giant hogweed is an invasive species that displaces native plant and animal species, destroying natural ecosystems. Its removal allows for the regeneration of native vegetation and the restoration of biological balance.
* Public safety: Contact with the sap of giant hogweed causes severe skin burns. The eradication of the plant minimizes the risk of such injuries to humans, especially children and pets.
* Health protection: Burns caused by giant hogweed can lead to long-term health complications. The elimination of the plant protects public health.
* Improvement of environmental aesthetics: Giant hogweed creates large, dense clusters that negatively impact the appearance of green spaces. Its removal improves the aesthetics of the landscape.
* Crop protection: This plant can threaten crops, competing with cultivated plants for water and nutrients. Its eradication protects agriculture.
* Infrastructure protection: Giant hogweed can damage walls, fences, and other infrastructure elements. Its removal prevents such damage.
In summary, the eradication of giant hogweed is essential for the protection of the environment, public health, and the economy. It is a long-term process that requires systematic actions, but it brings many benefits to society.
The control of the invasive species involved three methods: mowing, chemical application(spraying), and manual removal(digging).
1) Mowing:
- Benefits: Prevents flowering and seed production, thereby limiting the plant''s ability to spread. However, it does not eradicate the plant as it fails to destroy the roots and often requires multiple treatments due to regrowth. Additionally, it can pose a health risk to workers due to the plant''s toxic sap.
2) Spraying:
- Benefits: Chemical treatments can effectively destroy the entire plant, including its root system.
- Drawbacks: The use of herbicides can have detrimental effects on the surrounding environment, potentially harming non-target organisms. Moreover, precise application and the use of protective gear are essential to ensure the safety of those involved.
3) Results:
- Short-term outcomes include a reduction in the number of plants capable of producing seeds, thereby limiting the plant''s spread. Additionally, treated areas
often exhibit improved aesthetics.
- Long-term impacts involve a gradual decline in the giant hogweed population, allowing for the regeneration of native plant species. This ultimately leads to a reduced risk to human and animal health.
The eradication of giant hogweed has yielded many positive outcomes for the environment and society. Some of the most significant achievements include:
* Biodiversity recovery: After the removal of giant hogweed, which displaced native plant species, a return of natural vegetation and increased biodiversity has been observed.
* Improved environmental condition: The eradication of this invasive plant has contributed to the improvement of soil and water quality, as well as increasing the aesthetics of green spaces.
* Increased public safety: Thanks to the removal of giant hogweed, the risk of severe skin burns caused by contact with the plant''s sap has decreased.
* Health protection: The elimination of giant hogweed has contributed to improving public health, as burns caused by this plant can lead to long-term complications.
* Crop protection: Giant hogweed posed a threat to crops, competing with cultivated plants for water and nutrients. Its removal has enabled increased yields and improved agricultural production.
Number of ecosystems restored: 6
* Total restored area: 51.753 hectares
* Number of individuals reached through awareness campaigns: 25,183
As part of the promotional and informational activities, an opening conference for the project was organized, as well as an informational seminar and a closing conference. Within the project, animations were created on the threats posed by the invasive species. A leaflet and information materials were developed. A website dedicated to the project was also established. Current information on the project implementation was shared on the partner''s websites.
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