Kuldīga continues fight against invasive Canadian goldenrod
The Latvian town of Kuldīga is continuing efforts in September to control invasive Canadian goldenrod, a plant that is not poisonous but spreads aggressively and displaces native species. Areas previously cleared of the plant are now used for horse grazing and a walnut orchard.
The town of Kuldīga is continuing its fight this September against Canadian goldenrod, an invasive plant considered a threat to local plant diversity in Latvia. While not toxic, the species is notably prolific, spreading rapidly and crowding out native vegetation in the areas it colonizes.
Horses help maintain a natural meadow
Near the Venta River, at a site where the invasive plant was cleared away several years ago, horses continue to graze today. Their grazing helps preserve the natural condition of the meadow and prevents Canadian goldenrod or other unwanted plants from taking hold again in the area.
Walnut orchard planted on former "battle" site
At another location in Kuldīga where the plant was previously removed, a walnut orchard has now been planted. This approach allows the cleared land to be put to productive use while also discouraging the goldenrod from returning.
Canadian goldenrod is one of several invasive plant species that threaten local flora by outcompeting native plants in their natural habitats. Efforts to control the species continue at multiple sites around Kuldīga, combining direct removal with repurposing of the affected land.
