Heading into the water this spring? Check Clean Dry

23rd March 2018

 

South West Water's non-native invasive species expert, Kate Hills

If you’re one of the hundreds of thousands set to enjoy the South West’s lakes this spring and summer, the Check Clean Dry initiative can help prevent the spread of problematic invasive species across the region, says South West Water.

Kate Hills, South West Water’s specialist in invasive species, said: “Non-native invasive species are those which don’t originate from the UK and have a negative impact on our environment, economy or health. They can affect wildlife, restrict navigation and reduce biodiversity, to name a few.”

Invasive species such as Japanese knotweed and New Zealand pigmy weed are of interest to water companies because they have the potential to cause structural damage to water infrastructure including weirs and treatment works, choke waterways and disrupt native ecosystems. They also create health and safety issues for maintenance and recreation, particularly at reservoirs.

South West Water supports the Non-Native Species Secretariat’s (NNSS’s) ‘Check Clean Dry’ initiative, which encourages water enthusiasts to: 

Check – equipment and clothing for live organisms, particularly in areas that are damp or hard to inspect

Clean – and wash all equipment, footwear and clothes thoroughly, using hot water wherever possible. If you 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 anywhere else 

South West Water and the South West Lake Trust are set to launch a range of fishing and boating workshops across the region in 2018 to raise awareness of non-native invasive species in the South West.

Kate, who is the first invasive specialist to be appointed by a UK water company, said: “Following the NNSS’s advice can help us as a region combat the disruptive impact of invasive species.

“South West Water currently sponsors research into control measures for invasive species. Crayfish specialist, Nicky Green, is currently researching Signal Crayfish in a PhD part-funded by South West Water, and we are the first water company to have sponsored trials for control measures on New Zealand Pygmyweed using mites.