DI Renate Mayer from the Research Acquisition Unit at the HBLFA Raumberg-Gumpenstein first explained the world of invasive neophytes, their origins, growth habits, and the benefits and harms of these plant species. Following practical instructions (tailored to each specific plant species), the removal of Japanese knotweed and Himalayan balsam. Sites selected for this purpose were located along the Enns River and its tributary ditches, in wetlands, and in remnants of riparian forest in Stainach and St. Martin am Grimming .
In total, over two kilometers of watercourses and 500 square meters of riparian forest were treated to remove Himalayan balsam before it went to seed. A 500-square-meter area of Japanese knotweed at the entrance to Stainach was cleared, including its root sections. Not a single native plant species could be found beneath the knotweed ridge.
The students separated the herbaceous material from the rootstocks and packed it into a total of 80 garbage bags, weighing approximately one ton. The municipality is delivering the material to the waste management association in Liezen, which is responsible for its proper disposal in suitable incineration plants. The accompanying teachers actively participated in the project and are integrating the topic into their lessons (e.g., mathematics, biology, geography).
The plant populations already formed monocultures and originated from the deposition of landfill material or the introduction of contaminated soil onto the area (during excavation work). Himalayan balsam, as an annual plant, can be composted before it goes to seed. Japanese knotweed must be packed in tightly sealed garbage bags and will be disposed of properly by the waste management association.
The municipalities of Irdning-Donnerbachtal, Stainach-Pürgg, and St. Martin am Grimming supported the Science Days and helped with the removal of the plant material. The areas will continue to be monitored, invasive species will be removed in a timely manner, and the recolonization of native plant species on these temporary fallow areas will be carefully documented.
The aim of these Science Days is to raise awareness and understanding about invasive plants: identifying species and their distribution patterns, preventing their spread, quickly containing outbreaks with appropriate measures, proper handling, and being mindful of sensitive locations such as riparian buffer zones, protected areas, wetlands, and gardens. At the same time, the event aims to demonstrate that native plant species can re-establish themselves if appropriate measures are implemented.
The Science Days are organized and implemented every year during the summer semester by HBLFA Raumberg-Gumpenstein in cooperation with regional partners.
Pictures from the Science Days on the removal of invasive neophytes with schools
