Introduction: The purpose of this project is to investigate if using IVM can reduce the operational expenditure, number of re-visits, exposure to hazardous activities and impact on the environment compared to traditional techniques.

There is a project plan in place to cover the following steps;

• Determine current knowledge about IVM strategies in the USA and elsewhere by reviewing existing literature and other information sources
• Literature review to assess current equipment and methods.
• Decide management objectives and the range of herbicides and equipment to be used.
• Carry out a baseline site and vegetation survey to understand the site specific plant succession applicable at Tongham Railway site.
• Carry out a baseline ecology survey and ‘willingness to pay’ survey.
• Set up the trial, with different treatment options and control areas at Tongham Railway.
• Monitor the effectiveness of the various methods used at Tongham Railway.
• Monitor the changes in habitats for wildlife.
• Results from the trial will be used to make a comparison between the current method and the innovative method and to assess the viability of the innovative method from a consideration of financial and environmental factors.

Objectives:

- Determine current knowledge about IVM strategies in the USA and elsewhere by reviewing existing literature and other information sources
- Design IVM strategies based on current knowledge and test them in the field
- Implement IVM strategies on trial site(s)
- Quantify any financial savings of IVM compared to conventional techniques
- Assess the relative value of biodiversity of the habitat arising from the IVM compared to conventional techniques
 

Expected Benefits: The success of the project will be defined by the following outcomes;

• Identification of the extent to which IVM can control trees returning and how effective it is as a tool to maintain regulatory standards around power lines.
• Determine if IVM is a cost effective method in the UK
• Production and dissemination of learning around IVM