Giant Hogweed control studied on south Tipperary farm in national pilot

More than 28 farmers gathered in Cappawhite at the farm of Tom and Geraldine Ryan, Moher East in Cappawhite, for a practical training event focused on Giant Hogweed control and water quality protection.

Last year, contractors Oakwin carried out assessments and undertook a giant hogweed removal programme in the west Tipperary area under the Farming for Water EIP. In 2025, approximately 11.3km of the Cappawhite stream and 6km of the Toem stream were tended to.

Further infestations along the Toem, Cappawhite and Cahernahallia tributaries of the upper Mulkear/Dead River catchment in Cappawhite were identified and removed in 2026 in collaboration with stakeholders and property owners.

Invasive species expert Noel McCarthy of INVAS Biosecurity led the training at Cappawhite, providing practical guidance on the identification, safe handling and control of Giant Hogweed, one of Ireland's most problematic invasive plant species.

Participants learned how to identify the plant at different stages of growth, put in place effective biosecurity measures and safely carry out mechanical control. There was also guidance on the importance of preventing the accidental spread of seeds and plant material.

There are serious health risks associated with Giant Hogweed, as the sap contains toxic compounds that can cause severe skin irritation and blistering when exposed to sunlight, potentially leading to painful burns, long-term scarring and increased sensitivity to ultraviolet light.

Participants also got the chance to see a range of water quality measures already in place on the Ryan farm, targeted actions that reduce nutrient and sediment losses to local waterways.

Roisin McManus of Teagasc explained some of the measures farmers can avail of through the Farming for Water project including riparian protection, targeted nutrient management, biodiversity enhancement initiatives and strategies to reduce runoff risks, including the closing off of watercourses to cattle, and the use of solar powered pumps and water troughs in the pasture.

Joan Martin of the Farming for Water EIP highlighted the importance of a coordinated catchment-wide approach to invasive species management.

“To effectively manage invasive species, we need to work from the headwaters downstream and ensure all stakeholders are involved,” said Joan Martin of the Farming for Water project.

“A catchment approach allows farmers, advisers, local communities, State agencies and environmental organisations to work together to prevent the spread of invasive plants and protect our rivers and biodiversity.”

“Success depends on everyone playing their part across the entire catchment rather than addressing issues in isolation,” she said.

The national pilot event brought together farmers, agricultural advisers and environmental specialists to demonstrate how productive farming and environmental protection can work hand in hand, and was organised by Teagasc with support from other bodies including Arra-Tipp, Dawn Meats, ABP and the Kinisla Advisory Teams, and Tipperary County Council.