INWAZJA BARSZCZU SOSNOWSKIEGO (HERACLEUM SOSNOWSKYI MANDEN.) NA TERENIE GMINY SIECHNICE (DOLNOŚLĄSKIE) I PERSPEKTYWY JEGO ZWALCZANIA.

Heracleum sosnowskyi was introduced into Europe from south-west Asia in the 19th century as a forage plant. At present, it is widespread in many countries and belongs to the most invasive plants in the world. The main goal of the research was determination of the invasion of Sosnowsky hogweed in Siechnice commune (South-western Poland) and the methods of its future eradication. In the investigated area 51 clumps of Heracleum sosnowskyi were found, which occupied from 8,0 m2 to even 800 m2 of area. Among types of habitats most often occupied by Sosnowsky hogweed waterfronts were dominant. Its clumps were also confirmed close to the roads, paths and railway track. The observations of Sosnowsky hogweed development, have suggested that in Siechnice area are favorable conditions for its growth and future spreading. The presence of Heracleum sosnowskyi in Siechnice threatens the environment as well as human and animal health. Moreover, the closeness of watercourses, encourages its expansion to neighboring areas and increases the scale of its invasion. Because of that facts, the eradication of this dangerous alien weed in Siechnice is necessary. The elimination of well-established populacion of Heracleum sosnowskyi is difficult, and can take several seasons. It should include not only various mechanical, chemical treatments, but also the regular monitoring of its future expansion. It is worth to involve the local community to the battle against Heracleum sosnowskyi. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]