The impacts of invasive species on our wildlife and environment will be highlighted during an awareness week.

Led by GB Non-Native Species Secretariat, to mark ‘Invasive Species Week 2019’, there will be events to raise awareness of the issues of invasive species and explain what people can do to help.

Approximately 2000 non-native plants and animals from all over the world have been introduced to the UK. Most are harmless, but up to 15 per cent have become invasive, having a negative impact on our environment, economy (costing the UK economy at least £1.8 billion a year), and even our health and way of life.

Invasive species have caused dramatic declines of some native species including the water vole, white-clawed crayfish, and red squirrel. They threaten many key sites and are a particular threat in sensitive areas, such as offshore islands, rivers, lakes and streams.

South West Lakes Trust and South West Water are hosting the South West Invasive Species Forum on Monday (May 13) at Roadford Lake for a day of talks and regional updates. This event is suitable for anyone working in the environment and will cover issues including Japanese knotweed and the Asian Hornet. Booking is essential – visit https://www.swlakestrust.org.uk/events-upcoming-list/ to register.

Following on from this, on Saturday (May 18), there is an invitation to Meet the Aliens at Siblyback Lake. Suitable for all the family, there will be talks and children’s activities with an invasive species theme.