By Patrick Shannon-Hughes, Environmental Quality for Nature Senior Officer (Agri Chemicals)
We’re pleased to release the updated Weed Control Handbook: Guidance for Herbicide Use on Nature Conservation Sites - a long-awaited refresh of the 2002 Herbicide Handbook. This new edition reflects more than two decades of evolving practice, policy, and environmental awareness. It offers practical, evidence-based guidance for anyone managing vegetation on sites of ecological importance.
The importance of vegetation management in conservation
Vegetation management is a cornerstone of habitat management on conservation sites, especially in areas of significant ecological value. For nature reserves, Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs), National Nature Reserves (NNRs), Local Wildlife Sites (LWSs), and areas within the UK’s National Site Network (formerly part of Natura 2000) For nature reserves, Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs), National Nature Reserves (NNRs), Local Wildlife Sites (LWSs), and areas within the UK’s National Site Network (formerly part of Natura 2000), maintaining biodiversity requires controlling unwanted plant species that can outcompete native or endangered species.
Competitive weeds pose a significant threat to the survival of species of conservation importance. This makes it essential for site managers to implement strategies to control problem species effectively.
Alternatives to herbicide use
At its core, the Handbook supports an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) approach. It helps site managers assess when herbicide use is appropriate, how to apply it responsibly, and—crucially—when other methods might be more effective or environmentally sound.
From mechanical techniques like cutting and digging, to implementing biological controls, and adjusting habitat design, the Handbook explores a wide range of options to reduce reliance on chemicals. By diversifying control measures, site managers can lessen the potential for unintended consequences like herbicide resistance or negative impacts on non-target species.
This edition also expands its relevance beyond traditional conservation sites. It is a valuable resource for landowners, contractors, and managers working in semi-natural habitats such as woodlands, hedgerows, riverbanks, field margins, and amenity areas. These landscapes often fall outside of agricultural schemes but still require thoughtful weed control to protect biodiversity and ecosystem function.
Key features of the Handbook include:
- A detailed list of vegetation commonly requiring control on conservation sites
- Guidance on active substances and their appropriate use
- Summary sheets on herbicide efficacy and environmental fate
- A comprehensive overview of relevant legislation
- Signposting to further resources for site-specific advice
Who Benefits from the Handbook?
The Handbook is designed to be practical and adaptable. It doesn’t prescribe a one-size-fits-all solution but instead equips land managers with the knowledge to make informed decisions based on site conditions, conservation goals, and legal requirements. It’s a tool for balancing ecological integrity with operational needs.
The Handbook offers a practical, up-to-date reference to support vegetation management decisions across a wide range of habitats. It reflects our shared commitment to evidence-based conservation and provides a useful framework for applying herbicide guidance alongside sustainable alternatives. Many Natural England and DEFRA colleagues contributed to its development, and their expertise has helped shape a resource that will support our work across the country.
Please share the handbook with colleagues, partners, and stakeholders who may benefit from its guidance. Thank you to everyone involved in bringing this updated edition to life.
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