Checking, cleaning and drying leads to success

Wednesday, March 9, 2011

Sampling carried out during February has shown that all rivers tested in our region are free of invasive freshwater plant didymo, thanks to the efforts of waterway users.

Horizons Regional Council undertakes a regional didymo monitoring programme in conjunction with Greater Wellington Regional Council, the Department of Conservation and Fish and Game three times a year on behalf on MAF Biosecurity NZ.

The first monitoring run for this year showed no signs of the weed.

Horizons pest plant expert Craig Davey says the water users who are most at risk of spreading Didymo are checking, cleaning and drying their gear, which has greatly contributed to the positive test results.

“People at the highest risk of spreading are those who get out on waterways and use things like fishing tackle, kayaks and rafts, and move between waterways but it’s clear they are adopting the check, clean, dry mantra, which is fantastic.”

Over the recent summer months 276 people using the region’s waterways signed individual pledge cards committing to protecting our freshwater resources.

Mr Davey says that it’s crucial people see the importance of continuing to check, clean and dry despite the positive outcome of the latest monitoring.

“There are many iconic waterways in our region like the Foxton estuary Ramsar site, two national parks, and several renowned trout fishing sites. It’s the travelling between waterways that can be a problem, so all people who do that need to remember the effects their actions can have so that we can keep enjoying these places.”

Chair of Horizons Environment Committee Jill White says that the people of the region should be proud that they are part of a didymo-free bigger picture.

“We’ve come this far in preventing didymo from establishing itself in the North Island so I’m pleased the community is taking responsibility for keeping it that way,” said Ms White.

ENDS

© Scoop Media