Why would I need an excavation discovery dig?

Why would I need an excavation discovery dig?

The size of the infestation of visible knotweed on the surface may not be representative of the extent of knotweed rhizome under the ground. As JKW spreads its highly regenerative underground rhizome system underground, it is important to understand the size of the area infested, the maturity and life cycle of the rhizome system in order to provide an effective treatment plan. 

An excavation discovery dig is required when there has been: 
  1. possible concealment, either intentional or unintentionally 
  2. previous attempts at removal or treatment, particularly where rhizome dormancy has been induced by previous ineffective herbicide treatment
  3. the ground has been disturbed in an affected area, resulting in the spread of the rhizomes
  4. JKW is present in multiple location on a property


    • Related Articles

    • What are the different survey types?

      Standard site visit and survey report A standard site visit and survey report carried out by our PCA qualified Invasive Weed surveyors. Our surveyor will aim to assess the entire garden to look for the visible presence of Japanese knotweed, and where ...
    • Why would I need a canine survey?

      Dogs may indicate Japanese knotweed covered by vegetation, submerged in water or covered by soil. They can also detect JKW in areas were attempts to conceal intentionally or unintentionally and where previous attempts have been to remove or treat the ...
    • Why do I need a survey? (Buyer)

      A buyer should take out a survey so they can ensure a professional company is used and the JKW is not just covered up. It also ensures a professional guarantee is issues whereas a seller may just pay for the cheapest quote.
    • Why do I need a survey? (Seller)

      It’s always better for the seller to take out the survey, as it can be used for any buyer and the seller can stay in control and ensure you own the plan, and this stays with you if the sale of the property falls through. It also ensures that the ...
    • Why do I need a treatment plan on development sites?

      The Environment Agency promotes the use of a ‘Knotweed Management Plan’ (KMP) wherever possible on development sites. Our KMP’s are drafted in accordance to ‘‘The PCA and EA Knotweed Code of practice’, 2013 (version 3). Japanese Knotweed is a form of ...