scope:

The guidance note specifies how to:

a) Identify INNS and other harmful plants;

b) manage infestations to prevent further spread; and

c) arrange for their disposal. It applies to individuals tasked with vegetation management on or near Network Rail Infrastructure.

Purpose

This guidance note provides the methods and techniques for identifying, recording and managing infestations of invasive, non- native species (INNS) and harmful plants.

Managing land infested by non - native and harmful plants in a timely and appropriate manner avoids:

• Excessive cost of removal and ongoing management;

• potential prosecution;

• negative effects on relationships with neighbours; and

• harm to people or livestock.

Early identification, demarcation and ongoing management prevents:

• Delays to track work or lineside construction activities;

• rapid colonisation out competing other naturalised and native flora;

• negative visual impacts particularly within social environments or within areas that are designated for their historical or visual importance; and

• plants such as Japanese Knotweed causing concerns to property owners.

NOTE: Network Rail have a responsibility to prevent invasive non-native plants spreading and causing nuisance and to prevent harmful weeds from spreading onto neighbouring property.