Sefton Coast Partnership



 

Research proposal

Proposal Title
Japanese Rose - a potential problem plant on the Sefton Coast sand-dunes

Proposed by
Dr. P.H. Smith

Brief description of the proposal
Japanese Rose (Rosa rugosa) is an introduced plant that has become widely naturalised on the sand-dunes. Casual observations suggest that it is spreading and may pose a threat to the native flora and fauna. On the Friesian Islands in north Germany this plant has become highly invasive and dominates large areas of coastal dune. This project will seek to measure the rate of spread of Japanese Rose on the Sefton Coast, assess its potential impact and investigate methods of control.

Who should be contacted initially to take forward the research proposal?
Dr. P.H. Smith

What area(s) of the coast will this cover?
Key sites within the dunes will be recommended.

What permissions will be needed?
Sefton Council, Natural England.

Why will the research be useful?
Essential to guide future management of nationally/internationally important wildlife sites.

What information is currently available?
Some knowledge of patterns of distribution.

What level is the research appropriate for?
Undergraduate/post-graduate.

Priority level beneficial to management needs
fairly high.

If you wish to make further enquiries about this project please email research@seftoncoast.org.uk stating the title of the project and your interest in the project.


 
Sand dunes