Water Body Managers

Help stop the spread of invasive plants and animals in our waters!

Invasive plants and animals harm the environment, block waterways, clog equipment, and can be costly to manage. They can be small and hard to spot so are easily spread on damp equipment and clothing. Read more on plants and animals to look out for. Once established they become extremely difficult and expensive to eradicate, which is why it is so important to prevent their spread in the first place.

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

Always promote the Check Clean Dry approach to preventing the introduction and spread of invasive species.

	CHECK – for what’s visible Check your gear, clothing and footwear after leaving the water for mud, aquatic animals, or plant material. Remove anything you find and leave it at the site. Remember to drain water from every part of your boat and trailer before leaving the site.
	CLEAN – for what’s not visible Clean everything thoroughly as soon as you can. Pay particular attention to nets, waders, and areas that are damp and hard to inspect. If possible, use hot water (at least 45oC) or a high-pressure spray. Hot tap water in most homes is usually set to about 55oC.
	DRY – to be sure Dry everything for as long as you can before using in other water bodies. Some invasive plants and animals can survive for over two weeks in damp conditions. The hull of a boat and tailer can dry when being towed.

 

Suggested ways to help members and visitors to follow Check Clean Dry

1. Display Check Clean Dry materials by the entrance / exit to waterbodies.
2. Limit access to water bodies, preferably to a single point where Check Clean Dry signs are displayed.
3. Visitors should log in and out, confirming that they have cleaned and inspected their equipment.
4. Install cleaning facilities at access points.
5. If possible, provide equipment that can be borrowed and used in club waters instead of personal equipment (e.g. trailers for boaters, nets and drogues for anglers).
6. Put waterproof Check Clean Dry stickers on any club-owned equipment to remind users to follow the guidance.
7. Consider additional measures for competitions and events.
8. Nominate a Check Clean Dry champion to promote biosecurity.
9. Download a poster for clubs and managers of waterbodies with these tips on improving biosecurity at your club.

Tools to help you improve the biosecurity facilities at your site

This section is under development.