Conservation of Wild Plants: Eradication of Invasive Pennisetum Species

Overview

The Environmental Innovation and Greening Directorate, with the support of its resident qualified botanist, is offering a free service to the general public to conserve the wild plants found in the Maltese Islands.

Abiding with the obligation declared by EU, Malta has to take immediate action to remove the alien invasive species known as the Fountain Grass (Pennisetum Setaceum) which is known to invade and smother native plant species. The Environmental Innovation and Greening Directorate, with the kind assistance of the public, want to succour the native flora by eradicating this alien species.

The public is being asked to report the place, through the myGozo mobile app, where they encounter these plants so that the department can remove them immediately and thereby safeguard the Maltese plants. This plant can grow both in the wild and in urban areas (streets, squares, walls of fields, paths, land, etc.).

What you'll get

This initiative provides members of the public with the opportunity to actively contribute to the conservation of Malta’s native flora and natural habitats. By reporting sightings of the invasive Fountain Grass (Pennisetum Setaceum) through the myGozo mobile app, citizens can assist the Environmental Innovation and Greening Directorate in the timely identification and removal of this harmful species.

The scheme offers the following Benefits:

Protection and preservation of Malta’s indigenous plant species.
Enhancement of biodiversity and ecological balance within both urban and rural environments.
Reduction of the spread of an invasive species that threatens native vegetation.
Improvement of the natural landscape and environmental quality for present and future generations.
Direct public participation in environmental stewardship and conservation efforts.

Through this collaborative initiative, the public plays a vital role in safeguarding Malta’s natural heritage while benefiting from a healthier and more sustainable environment.

Eligibility

Eligibility

This initiative is open to all members of the public who encounter the invasive Fountain Grass (Pennisetum Setaceum) in any location throughout the Maltese Islands. Individuals who identify this species in urban or rural areas, including streets, public squares, field walls, pathways, open land, and natural habitats, are encouraged to participate by reporting its location through the myGozo mobile app.

Documentation Required

No formal documentation is required to participate in this initiative.

Participants are requested to provide:

The location where the Fountain Grass (Pennisetum Setaceum) has been identified.
A photograph of the plant, where possible, to facilitate identification.
Any additional information that may assist the Environmental Innovation and Greening Directorate in locating and removing the invasive species.