Trialling techniques for the removal of Himalayan Balsam. Himalayan Balsam Impatiens glandulifera is highly invasive. It covers huge areas of our river banks and woodland and shades out native flora, including even vigorous species such as Bramble Rubus fruticosus. It also has a negative impact on priority species such as the Water Vole Arvicola amphibius, individuals of which are unable to reach suitable vegetation on which to feed. After the plant dies back in winter, river banks are left exposed and are then subject to erosion, which can have a serious effect on the reproduction of fish by clogging gravels with soil and reducing the survival of fish fry.