Somewhere between the hectic newt survey season and the onset of bat surveys, Gareth has managed to fit in pesticide training and pass his pesticide ticket.
As ecologists we're generally against chemical interference with the natural world. However, we only intend to use our newfound skills for ecological good; treating cut sycamore stumps in the coppice at Sprotbrough, as well as at some of our habitat management sites.
We'll also be exploring how we can put these skills to use in the fight against invasive non-native species such as Himalayan balsam & Japanese knotweed, which may be of use to our habitat management clients.