The fund, administered via the digital platform Open Collective, allows associations to register for assignments and companies to contribute financially. The municipality has selected about 20 areas for eradication. How many associations receive assignments depends on sponsor contributions. Companies can contribute regardless of affiliation with the Climate Roadmap. Several companies have already provided support, and the fund launches on May 12 during Partnerskapsdagen. Associations can register interest by May 24, with decisions and instructions given by June 5. Compensation is paid after work is completed and approved, no earlier than August. Companies wanting to finance assignments need to contribute by May 28.
Last year, nine associations participated with good results. The work requires accuracy and systematic execution, with adult leaders responsible for ensuring correctness. Eradication must be carried out on two occasions during the summer when the plant is most susceptible. From May 15, garden lupine, Canadian goldenrod, and rugosa rose are banned under a new national list. The municipality, like all landowners, is responsible for combating invasive species on its land, and the association work complements its own efforts.
Åsa Laurell, nature conservation officer at Umeå municipality, said the fund makes it possible for companies to contribute to concrete biodiversity measures while associations finance their operations, connecting benefits for nature with the local community. She noted great interest from companies wanting to make a practical difference.