The spread of floating pennywort is a continuing problem in our rivers and canals.
Volunteers have been tackling this invasive species and manage clear access to the local waterways they love.
A number of events, across the country, took place during Invasive Non-Native Species Week (20 – 26 May 2024), and it is estimated about 21 tonnes were removed.
Below is a roundup and a big thanks to everyone who helped.
Volunteers from Lincoln Paddlers and Lincoln & District Angling Association worked alongside the Angling Trust, Rivercare, East Mercia Rivers Trust and the Animal Plant Health Agency (APHA).
They removed floating pennywort from the catchment drain in Lincoln.
The local groups have been working hard to keep the main navigation free and the catchment drain is a source of persistent pennywort.
Action was also taken on the River Soar in Leicester.
Volunteers from Leicester Outdoor Pursuits Centre, Leicester Rowing Club, West End Runners and Leicester City Council teamed up to remove the emerging pennywort from the river.
This event exemplified the importance of removing the plant before the peak of summer, the two tonnes removed could quickly become larger and difficult to deal with.
Attention then moved to the Beeston Canal in Nottingham where three tonnes of pennywort taken out of the canal.
Overhanging branches and brambles were also pruned and trimmed back.
Work also took place in the south at Springfield Marina, in London. Thanks to Leaside Trust for hosting the event and Mike and Tracey, at the Marina, for their support.
About 22 volunteers removed seven tonnes.
Stonebridge Lock, in London, was another area tackled by volunteers. A massive thanks to Andy Gee, Tim Payne, Nicola Baird and Hester Hearn.
Pennywort is so heavy to lift and the sides of the Lee are high so a thank you to Lewis Elmes from the Environment Agency, Maxwell, Tommy, Daniel and Drew Chadwick from Angling Trust who organised the pennywort disposal.
About three tonnes of floating pennywort was removed from a two mile stretch.
Thanks again to everyone who has helped.
If you'd like to volunteer for a future event, please contact Jake Crone or Pippa Rowlandson.