Volunteers Remove Invasive Plant from Upton Towans Nature Reserve

Volunteers from National Grid Electricity Distribution (NGED) have been tackling an invasive plant that’s taken hold at the Upton Towans Nature Reserve in Hayle.

A team spent the day clearing red valerian, an unwelcome species that has been spreading across the dunes and threatening the rare plants and wildlife that make the reserve special. Managed by Cornwall Wildlife Trust, the site is known for its fragile sand dune ecosystem which supports butterflies, bees and skylarks.

Red valerian is a perennial plant that produces large numbers of seeds, easily dispersed by wind and water, allowing it to spread quickly and crowd out native flowers.

Supporting Cornwall’s Biodiversity

Emily Green, NGED’s Volunteering and Sponsorships Coordinator, said:

“Our colleagues have really enjoyed getting involved with Cornwall Wildlife Trust’s conservation work. These volunteering days have been a fantastic way to support local biodiversity while giving back to the communities we serve. We’re proud to partner with the trust and help protect these special places for future generations.”

This marks the second conservation volunteering day NGED staff have carried out in Cornwall for the wildlife trust. Another team recently cleared ragwort from Helman Tor Nature Reserve near Bodmin, helping to restore the area for native grazing animals.

Partnership Making a Lasting Difference

Rowan Hartgroves, Cornwall Wildlife Trust’s Corporate Partnerships Officer, said:

“National Grid’s support for our nature reserves has been outstanding. Their sponsorship helps us carry out vital conservation work, while their volunteering teams bring energy and commitment on the ground.

From restoring grazing habitats at Helman Tor, to improving bog and heathland at Allet, and protecting rare dune wildlife at Upton Towans, their combined contribution is making a lasting difference for Cornwall’s wildlife and wild places.”

As part of the ongoing partnership, NGED will complete two more volunteering days with the trust before March 2026.