Forthbank Wind Energy Development - Partnerships for Renewables

Forthbank Wind Energy Development
Giant Hogweed
11.6.16 The small, scattered stands of giant hogweed which were identified in the immediate vicinity of
the proposed location of turbine no.1 (see Target Note 4, Figure 11.4) are likely to be directly
affected by the wind energy development construction works through the site preparation
and/or turbine installation works. Consequently, measures will need to be implemented to
avoid the spread of this legally controlled species.
11.6.17 In contrast, it is less certain whether the nearby section of seawall which is contaminated with
giant hogweed (Target Note 5, Figure 11.4) will be directly affected by the construction works.
However, given the close proximity of this stand to the access track and taking a precautionary
approach it should be considered likely that the ground where the plants are growing may be
disturbed as part of any track widening works. It is also likely that individual plants will be
disturbed by passing vehicles thereby potentially spreading seeds indirectly to other,
unaffected parts of the site.
11.6.18 Consequently, a Method Statement detailing the control of giant hogweed at this site should be
prepared to avoid the potential for this invasive and legally controlled species to be spread
across the site. The Method Statement should be prepared by a competent ecological
consultant and implemented or supervised by a contractor experienced in giant hogweed
control prior to construction works commencing.
11.6.19 The control of giant hogweed can involve mechanical and chemical methods. Mechanical
methods range from temporary control by cutting of the plants to more permanent attempts to
dig out and remove the entire stand. Meanwhile chemical control involves the spraying of
glyphosphate, the only herbicide known to control giant hogweed and which is approved for
use adjacent to watercourses.
11.6.20 As an indication of the possible alternative options for giant hogweed control at this site the
following example approaches are provided.
11.6.21 Given that the ground where the stand which is in the vicinity of the proposed turbine no.1
(Target Note 5, Figure 11.4) will be excavated in preparation of the turbine stand foundations, it
is proposed that controlled excavation and soil removal be undertaken at this part of the site.
This measure should ensure the eradication of giant hogweed at this particular location.
11.6.22 Soil excavation and removal is also recommended for the giant hogweed located along the
seawall (Target Note 4, Figure 11.4). However, depending on the proposals to widen the
access track at this location it may not be necessary to control it in this way. Indeed there may
be issues involved in excavating parts of the seawall defences. Instead, this stand could be
sprayed with herbicide to kill the plants before any construction activities commence, thereby
avoiding the potential to spread the plants.
During Construction Works Measures
11.6.23 Field evidence and historical records indicate that otters and other species of wildlife (e.g.
brown hare, roe deer) are known or likely to inhabit the areas within and surrounding the
application area and are thought likely to occasionally pass through the site. Therefore, best
November 2010 Chapter 11 Page 37
Copyright Partnerships for Renewables Development Co. Ltd 2010 ©