Thread by @elkie76

An interesting 24 hours with #weedkiller, starting with a panicked alert on FB about the county council @NottsCC spraying poisons on pathways and walkways. Lodged a complaint and received this response: (a thread) /1

"We receive many complaints about weeds on the highway and as such we could not consider ceasing to treat weeds at the present time, as there is no suitable alternative to treat all weeds across the county effectively." /2
Now, I'm not convinced about 2 of those assertions..

So I've asked to see that evidence (genuinely interested). And offered to help develop or take part in a survey to assess local levels of nature awareness, desire for pesticides over non-chemical options, support (or not) for 'avoid zones'. 3/

And I've asked @NottsCC to speak to @WildlifeTrusts about resources, training and information to build understanding of pesticide harm on wildlife & public health & ways to choose alternative options.
Meanwhile I urge @NottsCC to pause this summer's spraying, while public 5/

opinion and also health can be properly assessed. Will you lead this @BBradley_Mans?
Also, I've highlighted how the term 'weed' only confuses this issue. Aside from invasives which obviously need tough handling, our common wildflowers, native plants, vegetation & ground cover 6/

should be welcomed for all their benefits and can be managed without chemicals, and allowed to thrive without posing undue risk. More awareness and a shift in language will help residents & decison makers make more balanced responses to complaints.
So, this means.. 7/

..it's up to you now - ask these questions, lodge concerns about how public spaces & pathways are being managed, speak up for wildflowers (which are not weeds).
Will your #Council stop killing insects, and start providing safe and healthy habitats for nature? I hope mine will.

Meanwhile, this may help (you never know!) #Actionforinsects

@threadreaderapp unroll pls x