Preventing the spread of invasive species 

Lord Gardiner has met with water companies and partners including the Royal Yachting Association (RYA), at a House of Lords reception to celebrate the work of the Check Clean Dry campaign.

The scheme aims to stop the spread of invasive species such as floating pennywort and water primrose.
It was developed in partnership with key stakeholders including the Angling Trust, RYA and British Canoeing to encourage recreational water users to follow good biosecurity practice and prevent the spread of this species and other invasive aquatics.

Raising vital awareness
Since 2011, over 75,000 leaflets and 2,700 biosecurity signs have been sent to angling, sailing and canoeing clubs across the UK.

Biosecurity Minister Lord Gardiner said: “Invasive species threaten the survival of our country’s native plants and animals and cost the economy at least £1.8 billion a year.

“The Check, Clean, Dry campaign plays a key role in raising awareness of these threats; preventing new arrivals, and stopping the spread of these species. It is great to see water companies supporting this programme to protect the future of our native species.

“By working together we can make sure more water sports enthusiasts know how important it is for them to check, clean and dry their clothing and equipment.”

Lord Gardiner also thanked the RYA and other key stakeholders for their efforts in raising awareness of ‘Check, Clean, Dry’ when addressing the House of Lords reception guests.

RYA position
The RYA has worked closely with the GB Non Native Species Secretariat (NNSS), the Environment Agency, Natural England, Natural Resources Wales, Marine Scotland and Invasive Species Ireland to develop guidance for recreational boaters on minimising the spread of invasive non-native species.

Emma Barton, RYA Planning and Environment Manager, explains: “We are continuing to work closely with Government and water companies to ensure that ‘Check, Clean, Dry’ advice is communicated to our 110,000 members and the wider boating community.

“By protecting our waters from the spread of invasive non-native species, we can ensure that our boating activities are not restricted by closures or movement controls. It is therefore crucial that all water users take every possible precaution to stop these species spreading.”

RYA Chief Executive Sarah Treseder joins the House of Lords reception
Environment Agency Chief Executive Sir James Bevan added: “Healthy rivers and lakes are vital to our economy and wellbeing, which is why it is so important to reduce the spread of aquatic invasive species. Water company support in promoting the check, clean and dry campaign is a welcome boost.”

For further advice, or to request leaflets or posters for your boating venue, contact: environment@rya.org.uk

Guidance on how to help stop the spread is available at www.rya.org.uk/go/alienspecies and advice on boating best practice can also be found on The Green Blue website

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