Mill Road, Marcham, 4th August 2012

By Andrew -
We returned to Mill Road in Marcham for another attack on the Himalayan Balsam.

The ditches and streams here drain into the Ock upstream from Abingdon, so seeds are quickly carried downstream.

James had done a recce and was shown a stream at the back of the Manor Farm buildings where this plant grows in abundance. We tackled the accessible bank, but the opposite bank had to be approached either by crossing the stream in waders or approaching through a field occupied by two "friendly" bulls. James and Robert chose the former course of action.

There was far too much balsam to be tackled in one session, so we will return to that location next year. We look forward to a rest and a picnic next week.
-Eleanor

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