Rutland Residents Urged to Report Ragwort for Livestock Safety, The plant is growing everywhere the council is not cutting verges and footpaths, there is so much of the stuff I would not know what should be reported.

Rutland Residents Urged to Report Ragwort for Livestock Safety

Rutland County Council is calling on residents to help protect livestock by reporting sightings of ragwort on council-maintained verges. While the plant is a valuable food source for insects, its poisonous nature poses a serious threat to horses and cattle.   

The council is keen to target its resources effectively and is asking residents to identify areas where ragwort might be a danger to grazing animals. Each report will be assessed individually, and any ragwort deemed a risk will be removed.   

Councillor Christine Wise emphasised the importance of balancing biodiversity with livestock safety. "Ragwort is a crucial part of our ecosystem, and we're committed to protecting it," she said. "However, we also have a duty to safeguard livestock. By working together with residents, we can manage ragwort effectively and responsibly."

The council encourages residents to report ragwort sightings through the FixMyStreet platform. 

Livestock owners are reminded of their responsibility for their animals' welfare and should take steps to prevent exposure to ragwort.

By collaborating with the community, Rutland County Council aims to create a safer environment for both wildlife and livestock.

My opinion: The plant is growing everywhere the council is not cutting verges and footpaths, there is so much of the stuff I would not know what should be reported. I assume the plants that are not removed will produce seeds and that is why every year there is more.