Ragwort
Another
year and another season of worry for farmers and horse owners
alike. The Country Landowners Association joined forces with the
British Horse Society and other like minded groups to attempt to rid
parts of our countryside of Ragwort. Unfortunately certain Highway
and Rail Authorities feel unable, because of limited funds, to do the
same. Since bi-passes sprang up throughout the valley banks of
yellow flowers coat roadside verges at an alarming rate.
What
appears a delight to passing motorists, could when it spreads to
nearby fields, spell certain death for farm animals and horses.
Under the1959 Weeds Act, Ragwort is listed as an injurious weed and
the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food has the power to
serve Ragwort clearance notices if it poses a threat to agricultural
land, and to take action against those who do not control it. It is
time Highway and Railway Authorities were made more aware of their
duty to those who live and work in the countryside.
Further
information about Ragwort removal can be obtained from the Ministry
of Agriculture,
Fisheries and Food, British Horse Society Welfare
Committee, DEFRA or local vets.
https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/69264/pb9840-cop-ragwort.pdf
.
https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/69264/pb9840-cop-ragwort.pdf
.