About the Event

Join FRT staff for a day of tackling Himalayan Balsam in Bilston Woods, along the Bilston Burn, a river in the Lothian Esk catchment. Himalayan Balsam is an invasive non-native plant that spreads rapidly along rivers and waterways, outcompeting native vegetation and increasing erosion risk. During the day, you will learn more about the impacts of invasive species, how Himalayan Balsam can be managed, and gain hands-on experience helping to remove it and prevent further spread.

This is a great opportunity to contribute to practical nature restoration in Bilston Woods, spend time outdoors, and meet like-minded people interested in caring for local landscapes.

This event is also taking place as part of Great Big Green Week (6 to 14 June 2026), a national celebration of community action for nature and climate. This year’s theme, “Together for Good”, highlights the positive change that can happen when communities come together to take practical local action.

Practical Information

What to Bring: Please wear long sleeves and trousers bring plenty of drinking water and any additional snacks you might need to keep you going. Waterproofs, suncream and midge repellent are recommended too, to be prepared for everything! We can provide gloves, but if you have your own gardening gloves you are welcome to bring these too. Please bring lunch, too, though we can provide hot drinks & biscuits during breaks!

Health & Safety: We will give a health and safety briefing before the task, with a risk assessment available to review and sign, before the activity commences.

Overview of the Day

9.45-10am: Meet at Bilston Glen industrial estate for parking and gathering before we walk to Bilston Woods.

10.05-10.15am: Introduction to Himalayan Balsam and its ecological as well as wider impacts

10.15-12am: Balsam Bashing

12-12.45: Lunch Break

12.45-3pm: Balsam Bashing & brief end-of-session reflection

Attendance is free - but please register attendance below. This allows us to plan for the group size!

If you have any questions, please get in touch by email at [email protected].

With thanks to the University of Edinburgh for their support for this event.