Parrot’s Feather control at Pembrey Canal

CARMARTHENSHIRE County Council has commenced work to manage and control the invasive Parrot’s Feather (Myriophyllum aquaticum) found in Pembrey Canal.

This project addresses not only the ecological impact of the plant but also considers the unique challenges posed by the canal’s location, alongside a popular active travel route.

During the process of removing the Parrot’s Feather, careful consideration is given to the presence of a healthy population of Water Vole (Arvicola amphibius), a protected species under the Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981.

The banks of the canal, which are used by water voles, are being avoided by specialist contractors and the work is being undertaken outside of the bird nesting season.

The experienced contractors have started the work of skilfully navigating a raked digger bucket through the canal to collect and lift out the Parrot’s Feather. The plant material, including roots, is then carefully deposited in suitable location, lined with teram liner to prevent any potential regrowth.

The considerable amount of the plant removed in two small stretches of the canal marks a significant step in controlling the Parrot’s Feather, however the Council will continue to monitor and address any potential resurgence of the plant.

With the bulk of the plant removed, officers will be able to more easily manage any regrowth identified next year and adopt the method of its removal at other locations.

The removal of the Parrot’s Feather plant from Pembrey Canal has been funded by the Welsh Government’s Local Places for Nature biodiversity initiative, whilst the proposed method of control has been consulted upon and approved by Natural Resources Wales.

These proactive conservation steps align with the County Council’s third well-being objective, to enable our communities and environment to be healthy, safe and prosperous.

Cabinet Member for Climate Change, Decarbonisation and Sustainability – Cllr Aled Vaughan Owen said, “Working with Natural Resources Wales and Welsh Government, we are pleased to be able to commence the important work of returning Pembrey Canal to a condition which will allow the canal’s biodiversity to improve.”