MEDIA RELEASE

1 May 2013

Don’t spread freshwater pests this hunting season

With the roar underway and duck shooting season starting on Saturday 4 May, Environment Canterbury and the Ministry for Primary Industries are reminding hunters in the Canterbury area of the importance of cleaning their equipment between waterways to avoid the spread of unwanted freshwater pests including the invasive alga didymo.

Environment Canterbury Director of Resource Management Kim Drummond says unwanted freshwater pests such as didymo, hornwort and lagarosiphon pose a serious threat to rivers, streams and lakes. “Once in a waterway they can disperse rapidly and destroy the environmental, recreational and aesthetic values of our waterways,” Mr Drummond said.

“We are asking hunters moving between waterways to Check, Clean, Dry any equipment that has come into contact with river or lake water – particularly boots and decoys. Some freshwater pests are microscopic and can be spread by a single drop of water. Even if you can’t see the pest you could be spreading it.”

Lagarosiphon is now established in Lake Benmore and is also present in a number of ponds and stock races throughout Canterbury. Kim Drummond says it is important that lagarosiphon is not transported to other waterways. “Even very small fragments can grow and invade a lake or river. Check, Clean Dry is crucial in helping prevent the spread of this pest,” Mr Drummond said.

“Before leaving a waterway, people should check items and leave any debris they find at the waterway. All items should then be cleaned for at least one minute with a five per cent solution of biodegradable dishwashing solution. That’s about one tablespoon of detergent per 250ml. Water absorbent materials such as boots require longer soaking times to allow thorough saturation.

“Drying will kill most freshwater pests, but even slightly moist items can harbour microscopic pests for months. To ensure cells are dead by drying, the item must be completely dry to the touch, inside and out, then left dry for at least another 48 hours before use,” Mr Drummond said.

“Following these simple procedures will help stop freshwater pests from spreading throughout New Zealand waterways. It’s everyone’s responsibility to try to preserve the environmental integrity of our waterways for future generations.

“Remember to Check, Clean, Dry when moving from one waterway to another, anywhere in New Zealand.”

For more information about didymo and other freshwater pests go to http://ecan.govt.nz/advice/your-land/plant-animal-pests/Pages/aquatic-pest-plants.aspx or visit www.mpi.govt.nz

ENDS

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