A “stop the spread” campaign has been launched. The campaign aims to counter the threat to Britain’s economy and wildlife posed by the spread of invasive non-native species such as the “killer shrimp”.
The campaign is aimed at all those that use the water for recreation and sport who can unwittingly spread non-native invasive species as they move between different bodies of water like rowing lakes. Individual organisms, eggs, larvae and plant fragments can be carried on equipment, clothing and footwear.
All recreational water users can take some simple steps to help prevent the infection of healthy waterways:
• Check equipment and clothing for live organisms – particularly in areas that are damp or hard to inspect.
• Clean and wash all equipment, footwear and clothing thoroughly. If you do come across any organisms, leave them at the water body where you found them.
• Dry all equipment and clothing – some species can live for many days in moist conditions. Make sure you don’t transfer water elsewhere.
Richard Benyon MP DEFRA Minister said: “Aggressive species from across the world have the potential to reach Britain and cause real damage and even wipe out some of our native wildlife.
“We all have a duty to stop this from happening, and all those that use the water for recreation and sport can do their bit by heeding the advice to Check, Clean and Dry their boats and gear. Just a few moments care can mean the difference between keeping our rivers and lakes healthy or infecting them with the likes of a killer shrimp or invasive non-native plants.”
Chief Executive of the British Canoe Union, Paul Owen, said: “The BCU takes very seriously the need for biosecurity and we fully support the campaign. All of the home nations have produced clear guidelines for all canoeists in their country as to how to prevent the spread of alien species. Canoe England has the ’You, Your Canoe and the environment‘ leaflet which clearly defines best practice in terms of the environment and biosecurity. Canoeing is the most popular watersport and we encourage all canoeists, members or not, to follow our guidance for the environment and biosecurity.”
Stop the Spread Factsheet
Invasive Aquatics A4 Poster