Himalayan balsam bashing
Pulling up an invasive plant
Happy Valley is a Local Nature Reserve and each year the Friends' group who care for the site struggle to remove Himalayan balsam which shades out our native wildflowers6 GoodGymers have supported Himalayan balsam bashing with 2 tasks.
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Previous sessions
Balsam Bashing Bonanza in Bramhall
Tuesday 5th August
Written by Laura Boldison
Tonight, six dedicated GoodGymers came together for a successful session of Balsam Bashing in Happy Valley.
Armed with gloves, determination, and a shared love for nature, the group spent over an hour clearing the invasive Himalayan Balsam from the area.
This fast-growing plant, known for outcompeting native species, was carefully removed by hand to help restore balance to the local ecosystem. We worked efficiently and with great spirit, managing to clear a significant section of the valley.
It was great to welcome Jonny for his first GoodGym task and welcome Jamie who's recently relocated from GoodGym Cardiff.
Brilliant bonkers Bramhall balsam bashing
Tuesday 1st July
Written by Ben Foster
Welcome to Hazel for her first GoodGym Stockport task!
This evening we were removing Himalayan Balsam from an area of Hope Valley Nature Reserve 🌳🌱
Led and instructed by Lynn and Bill (also sporting red tops), we set about an area already started by the local Scouts and cubs. While dodging nettles, low branches, and boggy areas, we spent 105 minutes pulling up and stamping out the invasive species.
We'll be back again in 4 weeks. Very therapeutic activity despite the nettles stings.