Protect your whitebaiting patches

29 July 2016

It’s that time of year again – when whitebaiters lower their nets into the water and the smell of the seasonal delicacy is soon wafting out of a frypan.

And with the onset of whitebaiting season on August 15 also comes the increased risk of spreading aquatic pest plants and fish from one river to another, so whitebaiters are being reminded to protect their patch.

“If you’re out there this year, just be aware that exotic fish species and exotic plants can be moved between waterways if you don’t check, clean and dry your gear,” says Taranaki Regional Council’s Environment Services Manager Steve Ellis.

The spread of nasties like didymo, hornwort, oxygen weed and gambusia (formerly known as mosquito fish) is a significant issue throughout New Zealand, but you help keep your patch safe by using the Check, Clean and Dry process to wash anything that’s been in contact with the water.

CHECK
Check everything that has been in the water for debris or plant matter. For example, nets, waders, dogs, car and trailer tyres, jet boat grates, boat propellers, bilge pumps, outboard motors, intakes, mats and carpets.

CLEAN
Soak the items or scrub them with detergent (5 per cent detergent in water or 2 per cent household bleach in water) for at least one minute, getting them fully wet.

DRY
If you’re not moving to another waterway for a few days, thoroughly dry your items inside and out, and leave them for 48 hours to ensure that any pests are dead.

For more details go to http://www.mpi.govt.nz/funding-and-programmes/other-programmes/campaigns/check-clean-dry/

Otherwise… happy whitebaiting!

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