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A project to remove an invasive species could see the area “along Rocquaine” free of Sour Fig by the end of the year.
Sour Fig was brought into Guernsey from South Africa in the 1800s and subsequently spread into the wild. It occupies the space where native coastal plants would usually be and so great efforts have been made to remove it.
The Guernsey Conservation Volunteers (GSV) have been running a Sour Fig removal project since 2023, with nine groups filling up a total of 16 skips so far.
In 2024 there have been two work parties and there are another two set to take place on 20 and 23 of March. With 18 tonnes collected in 2023, and a further 5 tonnes collected this year, organisers expect the project to surpass 25 tonnes this weekend.
“GCV is thrilled with the ongoing success of this project and 25 tonnes is a fantastic milestone,” said Angela Salmon, GCV Operations Director.
“Wherever Sour Fig is removed, it allows native plants to regrow from the existing seeds already in the ground. A variety of native coastal plants will grow and provide food and shelter for insects and small mammals. It’s wonderful to see the biodiversity increasing as the habitat recovers.”
The project has recently received a financial boost from the Strategy for Nature Fund, ensuring that work to remove Sour Fig will continue throughout 2024. The GCV hopes this will lead to Rocquaine being Sour Fig free by the end of the year.
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