How will the Ragwort Control Act 2003 be enforced?
Responses to BHS enquiries with local authorities have revealed that all are fully aware of the need to control Ragwort where it poses a risk to grazing animals or the production of dried forage such as hay. All are making use of the Code of Practice to form their Ragwort control policies but say that often, they have problems with adjoining property where Ragwort is allowed to spread. Some authorities and highways contractors have actively campaigned in support of Ragwort Action Week; providing Ragwort hotlines, arranging Ragwort education and pulling days and supporting volunteer groups. BHS Oxfordshire has been out with a team of workers, their bright yellow signs adorning vehicles to advise other road users of their presence and what they are doing. Organiser Dinah Harris says that several drivers stop and ask for information. “We keen a supply of our Ragwort information leaflets in the vehicles for just this purpose; it’s a good way to educate people about Ragwort.
