Event organisers

Help stop the spread of invasive plants and animals!
The island of Ireland is home to large areas of countryside which support a wide range of wildlife, and are important for our health, wellbeing, and the economy. Taking part in outdoor events is a great way to explore our natural environment, but comes with a responsibility to protect them.

Invasive species and other biosecurity threats, such as diseases, reduce our ability to access and enjoy waterways for sport and recreation, and harm the environment and our native wildlife. They can easily be spread on footwear, clothing, boats and equipment. The risk is higher at events and competitions where participants have travelled from other parts of the country, or abroad, and could be unknowingly carrying new invasive non-native species on their kit.

Everyone can help to reduce the risk by following a good biosecurity routine, remember to Check Clean Dry after leaving the water.

Event organisers can play a key part in protecting the environment and event waters by ensuring participants follow a good biosecurity routine to reduce the risk of introducing and spreading invasive plants and animals.

Basic biosecurity for events

Below are some suggested actions that can help protect the water bodies you manage or use.

Before the event

Ask participants to arrive at the event with all their kit clean and dry. View pre-event guidance for angling events.

On the day

Set up a cleaning station for those who turn up with damp or dirty kit.

Limit access to water bodies, preferably to a single point where Check Clean Dry signs are displayed.

Participants should log in and out, confirming that they have cleaned and inspected their equipment.

If possible, provide equipment that can be borrowed and used instead of personal equipment (e.g. trailers for boaters, nets and drogues for anglers).

Put waterproof Check Clean Dry stickers on any club-owned equipment to remind users to follow the guidance.

After participants have taken part

All participants should clean and dry their equipment after taking part.