Protect our waterways.

Floating pennywort, a highly invasive aquatic plant, has recently been spotted near the Middle Level system of waterways. The plant grows at a fast rate – forming dense mats that can:

• Clog water channels, disrupting navigation and water flow.
• Destroy habitats, outcompeting native species and reducing biodiversity.
• Threaten pumping stations, which could lead to costly damage and even increase the risk of flooding.

The potential impact on our waterways, local wildlife, and communities is severe if this plant is allowed to spread.

What you can do:

• Be vigilant when out on the water or walking near the waterways.
• Visit the Middle Level Commissioners’ Floating Pennywort page for resources on how to identify and report floating pennywort.
• Report any sightings of floating pennywort immediately to the Middle Level Commissioners enquiries@middlelevel.gov.uk  
• Avoid moving boats, equipment, or materials between infested and clean areas without thorough cleaning.
• Please also share this message with any local groups who use or enjoy the waterways, such as anglers, dog walkers, wildlife and conservation groups. The more people who know, the better chance we have of stopping this invasive plant.