Hooked on Biosecurity – Check Clean Dry to protect Lough Mask
Hello, I am Chantel Carr, the new Shared Island Biosecurity and Citizen Science Officer at National Biodiversity Data Centre. I’m excited to dive into the important work of protecting Ireland’ wildlife from invasive species. What better place to start than promoting “Check Clean Dry” at the World Cup Trout Fly Fishing Championship 2025 (World Cup Fly Fishing Competition | Ireland fly fishing competition)!
We attended one of the five-day competition at Lough Mask, one of Irelands stunning Great Western Lakes, known for its incredible wild trout. Our mission, to talk Check Clean Dry as an essential step to protect our rivers and lakes from invasive species.
Check Clean Dry are three simple steps to follow as a water user, to help protect our wildlife. Invasive plants and animals can be small and hard to spot, so are easily spread on equipment and clothing to new water bodies. Check out our easy to follow guidance on Check Clean Dry – Calling all anglers! Check Clean Dry.
The day was full of energy, tight lines and enthusiastic conversations. With over 400 anglers from all over the island of Ireland, Great Britan and further afield, it was a terrific opportunity to chat about biosecurity measures and how everyone can help stop the spread of invasive species, while enjoying their sport.
While many anglers were aware of zebra mussels across the island, fewer knew about threats like quagga mussels, curly waterweed and the devasting impact of crayfish plague. We encourage everyone to report any invasive sightings, or if they come across a dead native crayfish.
Interestingly, many anglers expressed the hope for improved biosecurity and informed us of prior measures in competitions that were enforced . For example, anglers would present a steam wash certificate for their boat to be able to be launched, no certificate, no competition. It is a straightforward but powerful step and something more organisers and clubs should consider adopting to improve biosecurity.
One of the highlights was speaking to Peter Bryne, who’s involved with the Lough Carra Catchment Association (lough carra catchment association – Reg. Charity No. 20206138). Lough Carra is part of the same lake system as Lough Mask and remains impressively free of aquatic invasives. The association work tirelessly to keep it that way by identifying risk and promoting local action. While mink and rhododendron are in the wider area, the lough itself remains intact, a valuable example of what we are trying to protect.
Huge thanks to Ballinrobe and District Anglers (Ballinrobe trout anglers group | Facebook) for hosting us. The welcome was warm, conversations insightful and the setting, picturesque. By attending angling events, we can raise awareness, build relationships and promote practical action, because when it comes to invasive species, we all must play our part by remembering to “Check Clean Dry”. To learn more visit: Check Clean Dry – Invasives.ie
We might see you on the water.
By Chantel Carr
Biosecurity and Invasive Species Citizen Science Officer