Foxtail Barley Grass Seeds are an huge issue in the city of Brighton and surrounding areas. They are a non native invasive species of grass originating from Northen America.  What's the issue? The grass seeds dry out July/August time leading to the seeds being deposited on pavements and  blown all over the place. These seeds then burry themselves into verges/pavement cracks etc to then grow next year. 

Why is it a problem? Its a problem because these seeds embed into the skin in any part of the body. This is especially an issue for domestic pets and wildlife. They work themselves into and then under the skin, causing inflammation, pain, absesses. Many pets especially dogs each year have to endure this and a costly veterinary appointment to remove them from their bodies, ears eyes, paws or internally.

Domestic pets at least can be helped by the veterinary profession, but what about our wildlife, no veterinary attention will result in open wounds due to the animal trying to remove the foreign body itself. The risk of fly strike and deep infection and maybe death is the outcome.

This could be easily prevented by the Green Party changing its current strategy on upkeep of its grass verges across the city and mowing the grass before the seeds dry out and cause problems. The last three years the problem is getting progressively worse, year on year. You are no longer able to avoid them as they are literally everywhere now as they spread.

I for one dog owner have had annual veterinary treatment for these seeds which have become embedded in my elderly compromised dog for the last three years. It's sad to see your dog in pain, costly and completely unnecessary! 

I am calling on the Green Party currently in power in.our city to change policy and prevent the suffering  due to a lack of foresight regarding what species is actually being allowed to invade our streets and pavements. 

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