Dollis Brook – Balsam Blitz

As part of the Thames21 “Dollis Brook Toe-boarding removal Project” we were also successful in securing some funding from Affinity Water to tackle the invasive plant Himalayan Balsam. While we are taking a pause in the toe-board removal, as it is currently nesting season for birds, and spawning season for fish, and we don’t want to cause them any undue disturbance.

We are still able to walk the Brook from the source of the Himalayan Balsam, near the Dollis Valley estate; removing this plant so that it does not get a chance to colonise the banks. This will allow native species to get a good foot-hold on the newly uncovered banks before the Himalayan Balsam can.

We invite you to join us for this event, when we finish we will meet the van which will be moved downstream to the Dollis Pavilion where we can enjoy some refreshments.

This particular event we will be focusing on invasive species removal exclusively. This will involve a fairly long walk, just over 1k in waders along the Dollis Brook so a reasonable level of fitness is required for this event, and isn’t suitable for under 16’s.

To sign up, please follow this link https://book.plinth.org.uk/e/VdqNlOsWZN1GFe4YAaxu

What you need to bring with you: sensible clothes for the weather, please bring a water bottle, and a sandwich or something for lunch.

We will provide all the require kit you need for the event, such as waders, tools, PPE, and refreshments (tea, coffee and biscuits to all volunteers).

We will provide project information and a health and safety briefing to all volunteers on site.

Meeting location will be: Dollis Valley Estate, Crocus Field, postcode EN5 2UF. What3words location ///reader.anyway.lamp

The nearest Tube Station is High Barnet which is about an 8-10 min walk away.

Google maps link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/9V4T9F2jxRJRQQmZ6

This is an event designed for the community, to engage the local public with the river and not for corporates. If you are interested in a bespoke corporate volunteer day, please visit our website https://www.thames21.org.uk/get-involved-2/corporatevolunteering/