Catherine Chatters
New Forest Non-Native Plants Officer – Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust
The New Forest is a very special place as it’s an extraordinary survivor of a medieval landscape and pastoral economy, supporting one of the greatest concentrations of wildlife in the lowlands of north-west Europe. The Forest’s ecologically rich and varied habitats including heathlands, ancient woodlands, grasslands, valley mires, rivers and ponds support an abundance of species.
In addition to the challenges caused by development and recreational pressures, the New Forest is threatened by the spread of invasive non-native plants, which can out-compete the native vegetation.
Working for Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust as the New Forest Non-Native Plants Officer I am privileged to play a part in helping to protect the New Forest, in partnership with landowners and our wonderful volunteers.
Everyone can help to stop the spread of invasive non-native plants by disposing of surplus garden and pond plants responsibly – please don’t dump them in the countryside.
