Rutland County Council calls on residents to report ragwort near grazing areas
Efforts aim to protect livestock while supporting local wildlife
Rutland County Council is urging residents, landowners, and occupiers of grazing land to report any ragwort growing on council-managed verges that may pose a threat to livestock.
Ragwort (Senecio jacobaea), a native wildflower, is essential for biodiversity, providing sustenance to various insects. However, while typically harmless in gardens, it can be dangerous to horses and cattle if found near grazing lands.
To safeguard livestock while preserving the local ecosystem, the Council invites reports on ragwort locations along highway verges that could endanger grazing animals. Each report will be evaluated individually to ascertain if intervention is necessary, and appropriate control measures will be implemented where risks are confirmed.
Residents and landowners can report concerning ragwort growth through Rutland County Council's FixMyStreet service by visiting https://rutland.fixmystreet.com/ and selecting 'Trees or Vegetation: Overgrown or Overhanging'.
This reporting system enables targeted resource allocation, ensuring effective protection and monitoring efforts throughout the growing season.
The Council appreciates reports of previously identified locations for ongoing observation and timely intervention where applicable.