Invasive Species

Invasive Species are non-native species that have been introduced by human intervention, outside their natural range, and have the ability to threaten our native wildlife, cause damage to our environment, economy or human health.

Once introduced, control, management and eradication of invasive species can be very difficult and costly; therefore early detection and reactive measures are desirable. Most non-native (also known as alien) species do not cause any harm and only a small proportion are considered to be invasive.

For further information on invasive species see Invasive Species Ireland.

Gunnera tinctoria – Giant Rhubarb

Mayo County Council, in partnership with University College Dublin and the National Parks and Wildlife Service, with support from the Heritage Council, undertook a research project from 2006 to 2009 to investigate the most effective means of controlling the growth and spread of the invasive plant Gunnera tinctoria, commonly known as Chilean or giant rhubarb.

Arising from this project an Information Leaflet for landowners has been produced.

Gunnera Information Leaflet (pdf - 868 kb)