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Recently, a web site was launched, claiming to publish information on Common ragwort (Senecio jacobaea) ‘From a scientific perspective’ and asking “Is it as bad as you think?” The whole tenor of that site was one of implying that ragwort is not a problem of any magnitude or concern. The professional manner and scientific structure of that site is such that it is likely to lead people to believe its content and inferences.
The author(s) of that site has chosen to remain anonymous, that alone should alert readers to question the opinions veiled in carefully manipulated scientific references. Through their anonymity, the author(s) protect themselves from question and criticism, yet they use the name of science to imply factuality in their statements.
It is our opinion that the site appears to have been produced by those with a significant environmental ‘axe’ to grind with an apparent disregard for human and animal welfare and displaying an equal disregard for honesty. That site - should you wish to review it - can be found at ragwortfacts.com
This site, by contrast, has been published by experts working in the field of ragwort control and dealing with the effects of ragwort on a daily basis. We welcome dialogue on the detailed facts and perceptions given in this web site
This site refers extensively to the internationally based report on Pyrrolizidine Alkaloids published under the joint sponsorship of the World Health Organisation, the United Nations Environment Program and the International Labour Organisation. The extensive report, published in 1988, is available online here should you wish to confirm any of the references for yourselves, or more importantly, to consider the context of studies, results and conclusions drawn from them.
In addition to published scientific reports, this site will also make reference to factual observations which may not yet have been subjected to scientific publication or may simply not warrant it. This site is not a commercial site, nothing is promoted nor offered for sale. However, the site authors and its contributors are commercial enterprises with a vested interest in the control of ragwort.
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