The Source to Sea project fights invasive species on our beautiful River Avon and its tributaries. If you'd like to join our army of volunteers contact sourcetosea@wiltshirewildlife.org or phone (01380) 736066.

You can follow what we do on our volunteering sessions by following us on Twitter @wiltsrivers

Our latest Wiltshire balsam bashing dates and locations are:

Download our volunteering dates


Hand pulling Himalayan and orange balsam by the roots from the riverbanks.What will I be doing?

Why are we doing this?

  • Himalayan and orange balsam are invasive non-native species, which grow prolifically on our river banks;
  • They out-compete native species;
  • When they die back over winter, they leave the riverbanks susceptible to erosion.

What do I need to wear/bring?

  • Wear long sleeved tops and trousers to protect from brambles and nettles
  • Sturdy footwear
  • Waterproofs, sunhats - be prepared for all weather conditions!
  • Packed lunch and water

What do we provide?

  • All relevant safety clothing - waders, life jackets, wading poles etc
  • Tea, coffee and biscuits
  • An opportunity to visit some beautiful river locations not usually open to the public
  • Species ID skills