Shire Brook Valley Nature Reserve, owned by Sheffield City Council and managed with the assistance of the Shire Brook Valley Conservation Group volunteers, has a huge problem with Himalayan balsam. This is an invasive plant which is non-toxic but outcompetes native flora for light and nutrients, thereby reducing biodiversity and it's roots contribute to erosion of riverbanks. The best way to control it is by hand pulling it before it can set seed. It is easy to recognise and pulls up easily without requiring tools. The Shire Brook, like most other watercourses around the country, has a huge problem with the spread of the plant. Any assistance on the following Wednesdays would be most welcome. June 15th, 22nd, 29th. July 6th, 13th. 10 a.m. starts from the Visitor Centre, stay as long as you wish. Long trousers,sleeves and gardening gloves advisable as protection against nettles etc.